A Whole Lot Of Cheatin Going On Analysis

Society has drastically changed within the past century. Years ago, not having a college degree did not limit individuals as much as in today’s generation. Without a degree, jobs were still accessible and employers did not single out those without a college education. In today’s world, it is nearly impossible to get a job without a college diploma. Parents, peers, teachers, and employers alike stress the necessity of having a college degree. Aside from academics, students must also participate in extracurricular activities. This creates crammed schedules leading to less and less time for academics outside of the class room. Even though it may not be crystal clear, Mark Clayton’s A Whole Lot of Cheatin’ Going On gives us insight on the stress …show more content…
Student surveys taken in earlier years indicated 80 percent of those students admitted to cheating at least once. But the college students were not the only ones; followed up by high school students at 80 percent as well (Pg. 199). Joe Krouse, associate publisher of Who’s Who among American High School Students, linked poor ethics of both parents and kids to be the leading cause. In surveys conducted in 1997-98, 66 percent of the parents of these top students said cheating was “no big deal” (Pg. 199). Clayton goes on to explain how technology has also contributed by making things like plagiarism easier than in the past. Clayton explains that even though cheating is on a rise, schools are working their hardest to stop such occurrences. Sandra Rhoten, assistant dean in the office of student conduct, attributed an honors code as one of the main resolutions. Ms. Rhoten says honesty from others who witness such events is a major deterrent. Rhoten also declared stern rules and major consequences as another preventive strategy (Pg. 201). Where Clayton has valid points leading him to believe that peers, parents, and technology are the main sources that have led cheating to sky rocket, I believe he has looked over the simplest facts behind the occurrence. Pressure on today’s youth to become successful has led kids to feel the need to do whatever is necessary to obtain a …show more content…
Along with having to maintain a miraculous GPA, kids are also required to be involved in sports and the community. Employers are searching for more than simply a “book smart” student. Just because someone is the top of their class does not mean they are guaranteed the position or acceptance into their desired school or workplace. Most parents require their children to also work a job. Packed schedules are leaving little time for academics outside of school, especially for high school students. Kids today have the task of balancing a perfect schedule that leaves just enough time for academics, extracurricular activities, work and a social