The use of a study guide by students at the UNMC College of Dentistry has been called into question by the college’s dean and faculty.
The study guide, which has been sold from student to student for a number of years, included a wide range of materials such as notes from class lectures and old exams, some of which had not been released to students. The existence of the study guide was first brought to the attention of the dean’s office last spring by a student.
With the cooperation of the student body, the dean and his administrative staff immediately began a thorough review of the materials. Based on the review, some obsolete or inaccurate material was removed, and the rest was placed on Blackboard, a software system that allows universities to post classroom materials online.
Funds from the sales of the study guides, as well as other fund raising events, were used to defray the cost of an annual family picnic, and such things as scholarships and flowers for memorials.
“I’m disappointed that the students showed bad judgment in using tests without knowing if they had been released for student study,” said John Reinhardt, D.D.S., dean of the College of Dentistry. “Since not all students purchased the study guide, it was determined that the material should be posted on Blackboard, so everyone would have access to it.
“Our students are bright and talented, so they want to do well and are interested in whatever study materials they can utilize. They were striving to be as knowledgeable and prepared as possible.”
Rubens Pamies, M.D., UNMC vice chancellor for academic affairs, said the student code of conduct for the College of Dentistry has been amended regarding the reproduction or use of any future unreleased exams.
“As part of orientation for every incoming class, we are making it clear that there is a zero tolerance policy for student use of unreleased exams in the future,” he said. “Obviously there was miscommuncation about what is allowed. We have taken steps to correct this situation and going forward, we expect strict adherence to the policy by all students. There will be severe consequences if the policy is not followed.”
Dr. Reinhardt said study files like this are common practice in colleges, universities, and professional schools and that virtually every dentist, including the dean himself, has learned something about dentistry from reviewing old examinations.
“Since this came to light, it has become very apparent that the students had no intention to deceive,” Dr. Reinhardt said. “They truly viewed this as a study guide and have been very apologetic and cooperative. They are outstanding and well meaning students, and they are committed to creating a culture where this doesn’t happen again.”