4: My Dream for Berkeley: Student Success Without Lowering Standards

What if every student had a real chance to succeed—without lowering academic standards?In this episode of Finding Space, Professor Dan Garcia from UC Berkeley’s Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences department explores his dream for Berkeley: a university where all students can bring their authentic selves and thrive.After 20 years in the classroom, Dan began rethinking traditional grading practices—deeply inspired by the book Grading for Growth. His shift toward more equitable, student-centered approaches led to the adoption of strategies like absolute grading, flexible deadlines, and exam retakes. These changes are designed to support all students, particularly disabled and neurodivergent learners, while still emphasizing academic mastery.This conversation challenges us to imagine a more inclusive university—one where learning is continuous, failure is not final, and success is accessible.Tune in to learn:Why grading on a curve can harm equityHow “A’s for All (as time and interest allow)” reframes student successPractical, flexible grading policies that support diverse learnersWhy universal design principles benefit all students—not just someReview transcripts on our show webpage.Share your feedback with us at [email protected] Space is brought to you by Research Teaching, and Learning (RTL) in UC Berkeley's Division of Undergraduate Education.