Ryerson University student Chris Avenir finally received comfort today after weeks on trial of facing expulsion over conducting a Facebook run studygroup for his Chem class [CBC article]. University officials originally pointed fingers at the online studygroup as cheating (in fact some members had posted answers to exam questions [canada.com]); however, Avenir himself did not condone the posts.

This is where I insert my indiscriminate plug for the research project I’m currently working on here at UVic: we’re building an app to facilitate academic research online (similar to Google Scholar) but that also enables collaboration not unlike that of Avenir’s Facebook group (if you’re interested, check us out etcl.uvic.ca). So the case like the one stated above is of concern as well as hope to us. The resolution here speaks to a slow understanding and adoption among academics; however, Ryerson’s action is not surprising. While apps like Facebook are rapidly gaining success for easy collaboration, they fail to recognize needs of a particular audience - and the constant voice of the academic audience will always be intellectual property and professional standards.

I’m not sure if this particular case is what spurred this upcoming event at University of Victoria, but if anyone is interested on following this topic I would highly recommend attending this lecture:

Facebook – A tool for Online Study Groups or Academic Cheating?

Thursday, April 10, 2008
1:00 PM ~ 2:00 PM HHB 128, University of Victoria
Facilitator: Robin Sutherland, UVic Communications Services

–This open discussion forum will address the recent controversy over students using Facebook to form online study groups. While this tool can be used by students for peer learning, it can also be used to share assignments and test answers. This session can be an opportunity to discuss strategies for creating awareness amongst students and instructors about the fine lines between peer learning and academic cheating. Everyone is welcome to join the discussion.–

Register [free]