Essays on plagiarism, writing, and education
By Lou Bloomfield, Professor Emeritus of Physics at the University of Virginia and creator of WCopyfind.
The Importance of Writing
Technology hasn't made writing easier, but it has made plagiarism easier. Why plagiarism isn't a victimless crime, and why writing is worth the work.
Published in the Philadelphia Inquirer, April 4, 2004
On Stating the Goals for Assigned Work
When students don't know why they're doing an assignment, they adopt their own goal: the highest grade. Stating the goals explicitly helps everyone.
Written March 18, 2006
On the Motivations for Grade Inflation
Instructors inflate grades to buy peace, not popularity. Publishing average grades would end the arms race.
Written December 11, 2005
On the Motivations for Cheating
Students cheat because society rewards appearances more than realities.
Written December 11, 2005
See also about plagiarism.