Just a few more things
First of all, I wanted to pass along an article that perfectly explains why the foreign teachers get so frustrated in our writing classes and in our positions as senior thesis paper advisors. There are many things I love about China. This issue is not one of them. And I quote:
‘My opinion is that writing papers for someone else is not wrong,’ he said. ‘There will always be a time when one needs help from others. Even our great leaders Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping needed help writing.’
The simple fact is, most of our students think actions we deem as plagiarism are not wrong. They do not commit such acts with malicious intent. As a teacher, it’s hard to fight against sixteen years of education that has taught you to “plagiarize” (based on a Western definition of plagiarism).
Another thing I do not love about China. The heat has permanently been turned off for the year (a decision that is based on the calendar, not the weather). It snowed tonight. It’s supposed to snow tomorrow. The high…let me repeat…the HIGH tomorrow is 30. Just thought all of you experiencing abnormally warm spring weather should know that. It’s time to pile more blankets on the bed.
I read that article last night and wanted to pass it along to my friends, but thought I better not. Stay warm!! How many layers does it take to keep Katherine warm after the heat has been turned off but before it actually warms up?? one? two?? three???