Occasionally, the forum receives questions from students who are doing homework or research for a project. In the case in which a student asks for the forum's opinions, I would think it appropriate to provide all we can to assist. In the case in which the student appears to be looking for a specific answer (e.g. how many languages does the Pope speak? what is his hat called? what is the Church's official view of war?) I would like to suggest that we point them in the right direction so that they can find the answer, but refrain from actually doing their homework for them.

This has become a big issue in schools. Internet forum participants are so willing to help others and students take advantage of that kindness and loose out on the opportunity of learning how to find things for themselves (which is the point of the exercise). Not to mention they rarely return to show appreciation for the assistance rendered -- ever noticed?

Anyway, just a suggestion.

Take care everyone.

-- David Bowerman (bowerman@blazenet.net), March 22, 2001

Answers

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-- a (a@a.com), March 22, 2001.

David,
I think that if a person asks a question without mentioning that it is coming from school, I will try to answer it.
But taking your advice, up to a point, when a student mentions a school assignment, I will henceforth ask what he has done thus far to obtain answers on his own. Then I will provide answers only if the student has made a reasonable effort, but has come up empty.
God bless you.
John
PS: I don't mind not being thanked. Only one of ten lepers came back to thank Jesus, and I don't even deserve that one thank-you.

-- J. F. Gecik (jgecik@desc.dla.mil), March 22, 2001.

Sounds reasonable John, thanks.

-- David Bowerman (bowerman@blazenet.net), March 22, 2001.

. . . forgot to mention that I wasn't worried so much about receiving the thanks either, just pointing out the attrocious manners.

-- David Bowerman (bowerman@blazenet.net), March 22, 2001.