If I were an alumnus of Benedict College, I would be furious. Their adaptation of a "Success Equals Effort" grading policy, where students are graded on showing up to class rather than actual test scores, could ruin the reputation of their degrees.

It's possible for freshmen at Benedict College to pass their classes, even if they fail every written exam.

That's because 60 percent of their final grade is just showing up and participating in class. The other 40 percent of their grade is earned through traditional test-taking and academic performance during their freshman year.

When I first started college, teachers were not permitted to grade on attendence at all. When I took Calculus, I showed up to a grand total of four classes (the exams) and ended up with the second highest grade in the class. I knew the material inside and out, and had I not wanted the easy A, I probably would have just taken the final exam for credit. Under Benedict's policy, I probably would have received one of the worst scores in the class.

Contrast this with my Ancient and Medieval Philosophy class. I showed up every day, held a solid C average on the quizzes, and bombed the midterm paper with a whopping 14%. My professor said that I approached it wrong. Since it counted 1/3 of my grade, it was highly improbable that I would pass the class. I would have to ace everything from then on, just to get a D-. In all seriousness he called me into his office and recommended that I devote my time to other classes. It was a harsh reality, but sometimes that's how reality is.

The problem these kids are going to run in to is that the real world doesn't reward you just for showing up. Your boss isn't going to give you a good evaluation just because you're never late to work. They are going to want to see what you accomplished and reward you accordingly.

Teach kids that it's okay to fail, and a failure you will make.