Final answer:
Grade inflation is true and has been noted over the last several decades, characterized by higher grades awarded for the same level of academic achievement in the past, influenced by changing cultural values and institutional pressures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question "There has been significant grade inflation during the last several decades" can be answered as true. Grade inflation is a term used to describe the phenomenon where letter grades received by students over time do not correspond to the same level of academic achievement as they did in the past. Essentially, what was considered average performance and earned a C in past decades, now often receives a B or even an A. One of the catalysts for grade inflation is thought to stem from a culture that rewards effort more than the quality of the output. Additionally, the pressure on educators to receive positive course evaluations, which may affect their tenure and salary, possibly contributes to this issue. It has become significant that even elite institutions face allegations of inflating grades, as seen with Harvard and Princeton. Despite some disagreement, there is a body of evidence indicating that grades such as A's have become more common over the years without a corresponding increase in student achievement. For example, studies have shown an increasing trend in the number of A grades awarded at colleges and universities.