Problem sets

The issue with problem sets is the amount of rampant copying that goes on. Well, guess that is to be expected anywhere, cos its the 'easy' way out. Doesn't help that im in 4 problem set classes, the the issues are just compounded ... Here are several more...

So lets say u decide to work in groups. Is it (fair/good/reasonable/whatever) to say 'You do the econ, i do the math?' It like, what do you learn from this man... (hl, u shd be so proud of me, i wanted to roll my eyes. just joking) Well, the theory of comparative advantage does promote such behaviour, and i won't say that i don't succumb to that temptation.

So lets say u've finished your problem set (whether in groups or alone). Someone comes along (and hasn't done the problem set) and wants to borrow yours. Do you lend? Repeat with assumption that said person hasn't done the harder/extra credit problems. Well, my stand is that if the person has tried 'hard enough' (and of course here the idea of hard varies alot) then it would be a learning experience.

So lets say you haven't done the problem set cos you dont understand the questions. Options are to leave it blank, to copy from someone. Let's say you really really don't understand the questions. Theres still the possibility of asking that TA at a problem session, though only after you have handed in the assignment.

SO lets say you obtained a copy of the solutions to the textbook (and assuming 100% accuracy). How much should you rely on it?

Yea, reason y there are all these scenarios, is cos im being boggled down by my problem sets. So, 4 problem set classes aiant much fun either (but i think still easier, cos can hand in late and they dun really care). The 4 scenarios above have confronted me these past 2 weeks, esp with midterms and papers gonna be due.

Was working on stat 251 with TK, well we work separately and check ans, and knowing TK, he really tries to do and understand the qn, so when hes stuck, its not cos he din try. Felt bad when i used theory of generating functions (some high power stuff) to solve an extra-credit problem, which wasn't doable by any other perceived normal means. Then i found out that the is a 'simple' solution in lecture 17 (now is lecture 10), which several people were just blindly copying from. Well, i took a look at it and tried to understand it, solution is quite 'cheapskate' cos its either you know this fact or you don't kindof thing.

Well, to the people that i work on problem sets with, ignore this rant. Things will be back to normal when i hand in my complex analysis homework due yesterday (and have no freaking idea how to do the 4 qns), and my anal due on monday (with a whole chunk of problems). Shouldn't be complaining too much, cos the time i spend on problem sets is actually lesser than most people (well, once i make myself start it that is). Alright, back to problem set. may i be done by today (who am i kidding?) Sigh, got 4 midterms next week WTF.

P.S. Played poker yesterday. Was quite stressful despite it being a 'short' 3.5 hr session. Should learn how to read people. I am so becoming a gambler. Still prefer MJ though, cos of the small chat that makes it rounds, and the fun of just shuffling and arranging tiles, picking and feeling tiles (hence i hate MJ cards), waiting for your tile, etc... Different skills employed in both games. Should i become a professional gambler? Nah, too much hard work.