While I don't doubt there is a bit of sensationalism to this story, I believe it has some merit. The quotes are quite interesting, even if they prove nothing. “When you’ve got more than five or six athletes in one class, you’re guaranteed to have fun,” said Robert Johnson, a tight end who left Auburn in 2003 and now plays for the Washington Redskins. “Class is guaranteed to not be as hard as the rest of your classes, especially if you’re winning.” Sounds like he really cracked down! :rofl:
Investigation has already been up and running well before this... http://www.ocm.auburn.edu/news_releases/presrelease.html
I just find this whole investigation quite funny. I could really care less what you think about my points. I am just throwing out all the quotes that I have racked up in the last 10 minutes.
And before we start nitpicking at classes and how easy they are, lets take a look at some of our neighbors: UAB's pokemon class http://www.pokemonvillage.com/shownews.asp?id_=5809 And lookey here, Alabama has almost the same exact DR/IS programs that are being written about: http://mb19.scout.com/fauburnfrm2.showMessage?topicID=125579.topic
as someone who has utilized directed reading classes, i can assure you of two things. no attendance is ever required for any of these classes I've seen. Secondly, the work requirements are significant and in line with other coursework i participated in, both as a student-athlete and as a business professional.
With most of these IS/DR classes you dont even have to go to class. As a matter of fact, I had a class last year in which I took all tests and quizzes online.... there was no attendance required.
The no attendance line was obviously just to provoke interest, as it has nothing to do with whether the class is legit or not. However, reading one book & writing one paper should not be considered adequate work for 3 credit hours.