I'm currently doing a stats paper at the moment (still basic stuff). I never thought I would actually use anything from it in the real world but meh....

Correct me if I'm wrong, but the calculations for sample size are only correct if it is actually a true SRS (Simple Random Sample) I couldn't find a link to the actual paper in the article but I think it would be safe to assume but the sample taken would not be a true SRS. It is more likely that this would resemble a self selecting sample, if that is the case, the calculations don't apply.

I'm not saying the data is incorrect, but without more detailed information (perhaps this information is in the actual paper) it is hard to make a conclusion. What is clear though is that the linked article is pretty much FUD.

I totally agree and apologise if I came across like I think that those who don't understand the Free Software movement are dumb.

It is my opinion that when people fail to grasp something it is the fault of the teacher, not the student. The problem is, if you don't actually read through alot of RMS's essays or listen to him at a public talk, it'd difficult to fully understand where he is coming from, and let's be fair, who is going to do that unless you already have an interest in the Free Software movement in the first place.

Somebody asked a question at the talk I attended, they asked him whether or not his talks are really making that much of an impact and that he is already preaching to the converted. I was thinking the same thing, he asked everyone in the room if they knew what Free Software was before coming to the talk, about 80% of the people in the room put their hand up.

Yes, Computerworld fails to understand what they are talking about.

I too am from New Zealand and attended a speech RMS gave at Auckland University. I have also read almost all of his essays. 99% of the people (geeks included) that speak of Free Software and RMS fail to grasp important concepts of the Free Software movement.

Thats not to say I support this riduculous FUD campaign against Windows 7. It is as bad as Microsofts "Get the facts" crap they pulled. I believe in Free Softare, and have supported other campaigns that the FSF support, such as Defective By Design, but the FSF should be focusing on the strengths of Free Software, the community and the potential it has in the educational sector. Spending effort talking crap about Microsoft is time and resources wasted which could be better spend else where.

Idiots think putting information on internet is private.....

Ok, as an IT student I have always thought how stupid exams are. In the work place if I am not sure on something I simply RTFM. But this is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard! Calling an expert in an exam?

Isn't the point of an exam to test the knowledge of the person sitting it?

If studies have suggested that exams aren't appropriate, then use something else to test a students knowledge. I actually learn alot more by doing an assignment then I do cramming for an exam.

Switch exams for assignments, labs, studies or even some kind of part time employment programme, but allowing students to ring others in an exam is not the answer to helping students gain knowledge and prepare them for employment.