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Mastery vs Non-Mastery

The traditional learning situation has been one where grades are given, over some type of spectrum. The implication of grading, seldom discussed, is that not all students are expected to learn the material fully. This is an unfortunate strategy.

But with interactive technology we have a new possibility. We can expect that all students, regardless of background or interest, learn to the mastery level. That is, we can expect all students to learn everything. In a sense this is true democracy in education, because the curriculum material makes certain that everyone achieves equal learning. Students who need special help will get it just when they need it, while students who need more time will be allowed that as well. So mastery learning requires variable pacing.