Cheating is a serious problem and will be dealt with as such. It is not only uncomfortable for me, but disgraceful to you, the department, and the University.

Assignments

The rule of thumb: Never share code in any form.

Anyone caught "sharing code of any form" when working on programs will also be reported, and action will be taken by the department.

Code simply means the text of your program, either in handwritten or typed form.

You may talk in general about the programming assignments and general strategies used, BUT YOU MAY NEVER LOOK AT SOMEONE ELSE'S PROGRAM!

The rule of thumb: Never share code in any form.

Exams and Quizzes

During exams and quizzes, talking is strictly prohibited (come to me if you have any kind of problem). If you forsee difficulties with this rule, you should arrive early to the exam room and find a secluded seat.

Anyone caught cheating (e.g., using writing on the desk, a cheat sheat, writing on the body, etc.) will be immediately asked to leave. The matter will then be turned over to my superiors and action will be taken by them (most likely an "F" in the course).

A short story

A few years back I discovered that about five pairs of people had extraordinally similar programs (similiarities that went beyond chance). The "never share code" policy was presented to each of these people at the beginning of the semester, however they didn't remember it (or possibly ignored it). I gave the entire class a chance to write a letter admitting to working together if they did, and I got back 10 letters. The students were allowed to remain the course, but their course grade suffered.

One particular student was greatly offended by this, explaining that "if helping a friend is cheating, then I am a cheater." My response was simply that he knew the policy from the beginning, and should have dropped the course immediately when he saw it. By staying in the course, you are accepting this policy.

Please don't let this happen to you... please only get your help from the sources provided to you by the university.

I hate this part of teaching, but I will not hesitate to follow up on any academic misconduct for everyone's integrity.  If you work hard and on don't cheat, I am fighting for you when I deal with cheating.