Since I am on the subject of cheating, I also saw a story about “Test-Answer Site Removes Professors’ Ability to Block Their Tests.” I was intrigued to see this story, about which I knew nothing beforehand, concerning a site for students to post test questions they had received on exams. I have to admit I have mixed feelings about this. On one hand, people should be allowed to do what they want to do within the limits of free speech. I certainly appreciate the use of technology. On the other hand, I am concerned that students would use this not as a study aide, but as a shortcut. It also raises the question concerning ownership of material from a class – handouts, readings, lectures, and tests. I had a student once tell me about another professor who made (in the eyes of the student) a big deal concerning the professor’s view that she held the copyright to her class materials. I tried to explain that professors were usually concerned over companies or individuals trying to profit from the materials. I don’t see this as much anymore (but I am not at a huge school anymore), but I can remember in grad school a company paying students for their notes so they could sell them to other students in the class. I looked on the site and did not see many questions, it will be interesting to see if it grows over the next few weeks notw that the site has gotten some publicity from the Wired Campus.
RSM
Ancient History Ramblings 