What is the term for assigning grades based on factors other than scores?

The term for assigning grades based on factors other than scores is grading bias. This occurs when a student's grade is influenced by extraneous factors such as personal relationships with the instructor, subjective perceptions of a student's effort or behavior, or other non-academic considerations. Grading bias undermines the objectivity and fairness of the assessment process, as grades should ideally reflect a student's understanding and mastery of the subject matter alone.

In contrast, testing bias and grade reporting focus more on the structure of assessment itself and the communication of grades, rather than the fairness of the grading process. Testing reporting pertains to how assessment results are delivered but does not address the subjective influences on grading decisions. Understanding grading bias is vital for maintaining equitable educational practices and ensuring that all students are evaluated based on their actual performance and knowledge.