What is the term for when an educator unconsciously gives higher scores based on a previous positive experience with a learner?

The correct term for when an educator unconsciously gives higher scores based on a previous positive experience with a learner is known as halo grading. This phenomenon occurs when an instructor allows their overall impression of a student, which may be shaped by prior positive experiences or characteristics, to influence their assessment of the student’s performance in a specific context, such as grading.

For instance, if an educator has previously encountered a learner who demonstrated exceptional effort or skill, they might unconsciously be more lenient in grading subsequent assignments, even if the current work does not warrant a higher score. This can skew the objectivity of assessment, as it emphasizes the educator's subjective feelings about the student rather than an impartial evaluation of work quality.

Recognizing halo grading is essential for educators as it highlights the need for fair and equitable evaluation methods that are based solely on recent performance rather than past impressions.