I understand that the argument for curve-grading rests heavily on the issue raised here of providing employers with a clear means with which to evaluate students. I agree that non-curve based grades would not drastically interfere with this objective - if anything it would give employers a more accurate assessment of a student's work. Additionally, since the majority of Columbia graduates work for firms, it can be inferred that the curve-grading system has firm's specifically in mind. The sense I get is that whether a Columbia student has Bs or As, he or she can still get a job at a "top" firm. So why such an emphasis on the curve?

The comment that the curve itself does not create competition, but rather it is how the students internalize the curve that creates the environment, is important to keep in mind. It stresses the control that we as students have over the environment in which we learn. However, as long as student attitudes don't change - this distinction becomes irrelevant.

-- CarinaWallance - 20 Feb 2008