Use of University Resources
We will ensure that campus resources are used only on behalf of the University-
This means that each member of the campus community
- Treats University property with care
Perspective: A Real World Illustration
A December 2001 Associated Press newspaper article reported on a cheating scheme occurring at a public university located in Mississippi. Four men were identified as being responsible for obtaining advance copies of an algebra test. Several students told faculty members that some classmates had advance copies of the test.
After grading the tests, the mathematics department found that about 200 students answered at least 35 of 40 questions correctly, said the head of the department of mathematics and statistics. In other years only about 40 students answered that many correctly.
Three of the four suspected of obtaining and distributing the test were students during the fall semester. They face possible expulsion. The fourth suspect is a former student.
One of the arrest warrants alleges theft of university property; the other three allege receipt of stolen property. All charges are misdemeanors.
University officials say the mass cheating caught them off guard. "Obviously, this is a most unfortunate and embarrassing situation," said the university's vice president for student affairs. "It's a situation every educational institution faces and none wishes ever to see repeated."
The university decided it would have been too difficult to find and punish those who cheated on the test. Instead students have the option of retaking a similar test or letting their semester grade stand.
"Nobody is going to benefit from the test, and no one's going to have to suffer," the vice president said, adding that the university will look at ways to make cheating more difficult.
"What we're going to ensure is that the security for such tests will be greatly increased," he said. "By dealing with those involved, it shows that this is less than unacceptable."
Last Revised 5/23/2006