What term describes grading a learner for higher than deserved achievement?

The term that describes grading a learner for higher than deserved achievement is known as grade inflation. Grade inflation occurs when educational institutions or instructors award higher grades than students merit, leading to an overall rise in grades without a corresponding increase in student understanding or performance. This phenomenon undermines the credibility of the grading system and can inflate a student's academic record, giving a misleading picture of their knowledge and abilities.

The other terms provided refer to different grading-related concepts. Grading improvement typically addresses the progression of a student’s performance over time, acknowledging enhancements rather than inflating scores. Grading discrepancy relates to inconsistencies in grading standards or application, which can lead to confusion about what grades actually represent. Grade deflation, on the other hand, is the opposite phenomenon, where grades are lowered to reflect a more stringent assessment of student performance. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the implications of grading practices in educational settings.