D2L - Grading (0 or Drop)

”In the D2L gradebook, when should I choose ‘Treat ungraded items as 0’ versus ‘Drop ungraded items’?”

For Grade Calculations:

• For the student’s grade-to-date or “running grade” based on the grade items that have been scored to date, select ‘Drop ungraded items’.  This setting excludes ungraded items from the calculation of grades.  Typically, this option is best used near the beginning of the semester if you’ve already added all graded items in the gradebook.  Keeping the final grade automatically updated enables a student to see their current standing in the course (when the final calculated grade is released).
• The student‘s grade-to-date or “running grade” will essentially be a failing grade until many or most grades have been entered when ‘Treat ungraded items as 0’ is selected.  Typically, this option is best used near the end of the semester or if you’re adding grade items to the gradebook throughout the semester.  Keeping the final grade automatically updated enables a student to see their current standing in the course (when the final calculated grade is released).