I didn't fail the student I mentioned yesterday.
After speaking to him, it was clear that he didn't see what he'd done as wrong. So I went through the essay with him and showed him parts that were exactly taken from other sources and parts where he'd summarized from other sources and I explained that even though some of the work was indeed his original thoughts and language that because much of it wasn't, this was plagiarism. He seemed to better understand after that, and he was apologetic about the mistake. I also talked to him about his attitude about the class and told him that if he didn't want to be there, he didn't have to be: I'd gladly withdraw him.
Again, he was apologetic about his behavior and seemed genuine about wanting to redeem himself, so I am allowing him to remain in the class and I'm giving him the opportunity to re-write the essay (with some stipulations and penalties, of course). I felt good after speaking with him, and he was thankful for being given a second chance, so I hope he learned his lesson and he improves his performance in the class.
Based on your comments yesterday, you guys would have enacted a much stricter punishment, and trust me, when I've received essays that are word-for-word plagiarized, I too have given students the boot. But, every situation is different, and it is my job to help them learn some of these things.
In other news, I haven't run in 2 days, and I don't know if I'll get time today either. I've just been so busy trying to get everything done that needs to get done before we start our vacation tomorrow. And this afternoon, after my last class, I have a doctor appointment and then we have to pack, and then go pick up friends from the airport. Maybe I'll get to squeeze a run in there sometime, but I don't know. If not, that's just the way it is. Sometimes, a girl gets busy.
14 comments:
Darn, and I was hoping that you put your foot in your student's back. Better luck next time:)
If you don't fit a run in, that's okay. You've got a lot going on. Enjoy your time off.
I love this Jess. This is a lot different from how I was treated in college.
So nice you took the human approach, I bet when he looks back on his life he will always remember the teacher who gave him a chance. You just never know how you can reach out to someone, until you do it.
You are correct, we (me included) who passed judgement without knowing the situation should refrain until we no the facts. Sorry...
Enjoy your vacay, don't sweat it if you don't get your run in, you are running around enough to make up for it!
Have fun.......
Everybody needs a second chance sometime in their lives!
(I've needed several.)
I think you did the right thing and now the student has a better understanding. Some people don't get how to cite. Have a great vacation.
And this is why I could never be a teacher. :o)
I don't have near the patience or compassion that people like you have every single day.
Good job handling the plagiarist. It amazes me how unaware some people are about plagiarism.
On the other hand, I was once accused of plagiarism with no evidence other than the prof was blown away by my essay. Of course, I was senior taking a sophomore level course.
Good luck with the last minute prep! I am so jealous!!!
I would have taken a different approach. I would make him bend over and I would give him 20 lashes. I would make him kneel down and say "I am not worthy" thirty times. I would have make him wash the hallway and clean 10 toilets. Just kidding. Just kidding. I am glad you gave him the second chance to work on this.
you're such a nice person...and a good teacher- that's why i didn't go into teaching- i can't be impartial. and i can't wait to see the u/s pic! :)
Sounds like you did the decent thing. We all need a bit of guidance now and again.
And THAT'S why you got the great EVAL...
Have a fun cruise (I know I'm about three days late with this post, and you're all gone now...and maybe you won't see this until you get back...but that's the kinda week I've had...)
That's great that you spoke with him about it, got his side and showed him what he had done.
Just a thought: what if a running blog friend of yours was your student?
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