Abstract

Fx grading system is a newly incorporated grading system in the Ethiopian higher education curriculum. The system started to apply in 2013, as an element of the modular curriculum, with the intention to a give second chance for students. Currently, this grading system is being implemented in Samara University, Afar, Ethiopia. This study has been conducted using a cross-sectional approach that applying a combination of both qualitative and quantitative methods. The data have been collected from students and teachers as primary sources as well as university’s registrar, departments and quality assurance office as secondary sources via interview, questioners, focus group discussion and document analysis. The data collected were analyzed by means of descriptive methods and interpreted using tables, percentages, charts, and graphs. Factors considered in the evaluation were challenges of modular curriculum, Fx grading system with its implementation, continuity of Fx grading system, and factors affecting Fx grading system implementation.  The result of this investigation indicates that the contents of the harmonized modular curriculum dealing with Fx grading system, especially on the course content, course code, course ownership, mode of tutorial delivery, mode of assessment, departmental  and college level supervision should be revised and modified for effectiveness of the grading system.

Key words: Fx grading system, modular curriculum implementation, Afar.