Students ‘anxious’ over probe

AN inquiry into possible cheating at the University of Otago has left medical students feeling anxious and stressed, the Otago University Students’ Association president says.

Thirdyear students at the Otago Medical School do not yet know if they will have to resit their exams after allegations of cheating.

In a practical exam, students were asked to demonstrate a clinical skill, such as examining a patient. Students were examined in batches and the Otago Medical School says students in the first session told the others what was in store.

The university is now investigating which students cheated and what the consequences will be.

OUSA president Caitlin BarlowGroome said since an initial email, there had been no communication with students and they were being left in the lurch about the process.

She said the students were ‘‘incredibly anxious and stressed’’.

‘‘Half of them are moving to Christchurch or Wellington next year and if they have to come back to resit their exams or repeat the whole year, it’s frustrating for their lifestyle,’’ she said.

Ms BarlowGroome said it would be outrageous if the entire year group had to repeat the year because of the possible actions of a few students.

While investigations continued, the university should improve its communications, she said.

‘‘They feel totally left out and don’t know what’s happening.

‘‘Has someone confessed to cheating, is there any evidence or has this been blown out of all proportion? The first thing they need to do is talk to the students.’’

The Otago Medical School refused to be interviewed by RNZ about Ms BarlowGroome’s comments.

Earlier this week, acting dean Barry Taylor said the university knew that cheating took place, but not who was involved. — RNZ

❛ Has someone

confessed to cheating, is there any evidence or has this been blown out of all

proportion?