MADISON, AL (WAFF) -
Lap tops, cell phones, and net books are showing up in the classroom more and more every day. Several schools even provided students I-pads this year. But the gadgets come with a gamble and its forced school districts to re-write the rules on cheating.
A one minute YouTube video is getting a lot of hits. It shows a 20 ounce coke bottle, but the label has test answers. It's just one example of what teachers have to look out for. It has more than seven-million hits.
"Cheating has been going on forever and with technology comes new ways to cheat," said Cindy Huskey, teacher at Bob Jones High School.
Huskey embraces technology in the classroom. It's not rare for her to tell students to use cell phones during a lesson.
"If you're engaging them and using that technology they're going to be less likely to use it to cheat," said Huskey.
[How to keep kids away from lying and cheating]
Most high school students own smart phones or other devices that use free apps. That means Huskey doesn't need to purchase expensive equipment and cut into the school's budget. But she admits kids are more tech-savvy then a lot of teachers.
Students aren't hiding these new found cheating techniques. Do a search on YouTube for cheating and in seconds, you're overwhelmed with thousands of high tech hook-ups.
Bob Jones student Brianna Melendez is aware of the consequences of cheating. The district, like so many others, has a code of conduct about technology.
Bob Jones Principal Robby Parker said the school adopted a hands-on approach. He encourages his teachers to not change their technology based teaching style.
"Problems come when there's a lack of engagement in the classroom," said Parker.
[How to Talk to Your Kids About Cheating]
Parker believes educators need to take responsibility for their students. Parents also need to be aware if their child is cheating in the classroom and talk to them about the consequences.
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