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Bubble Sheets at JMU

Overview 

James Madison University is introducing a new and improved test-scoring system called Bubble Sheets, which will replace the university’s Scantron system. Bubble Sheets is a tool available through Gradescope that all faculty at JMU can access to enhance their assessment processes. The Bubble Sheets system provides an efficient, cost-effective method for grading exams and works directly within Canvas. The new system allows faculty to scan their exams from any location or utilize designated assessment and test centers at JMU, saving faculty time, expediting the turnaround of test scores, and streamlining the grade-posting process. The transition to Bubble Sheets will be fully completed by May 2025, with assistance from JMU IT, The Test Scoring Center, and JMU Libraries.

Want to learn more about Gradescope?

Who can use this Service?  

The Gradescope Bubble Sheet service is available to all faculty members at JMU. 

How can I get this Service?  

Canvas – Faculty can streamline the Bubble Sheet process by fully utilizing Gradescope within Canvas. Ensure your course is created and roster synced to use Gradescope’s Auto-Matching, which cross-references handwritten student names with the course roster. Gradescope offers free bubble sheet templates that can be scanned anywhere, and JMU provides a downloadable version for faculty use.

Syncing Gradescope with Canvas Course:

  1. Create/Link a Gradescope Course
  2. Sync Course/Roster
  3. Create Assignment
  4. Grading
  5. Posting Grades

** Syncing Gradescope and Canvas guide

Bubble Sheet Creation:

  1. Within your Canvas course, create a Bubble Sheet assignment within the Gradescope menu (refer to instructions above)
  2. Build an answer key; multiple keys can be made. An answer key can be built without exam questions, and variable points can be assigned to individual questions.
  3. Administer an exam and scan and upload bubble sheets
  4. Begin the grading process
  5. Post grades

** Bubble Sheets Canvas integration guide

** Bubble Sheet creation guide

** Bubble Sheet Gradescope video

Where can I get Help/Support?