This threat has struck terror in the hearts of students and employees since time immemorial. The humiliation of an indelible blemish on our formal record as a result of some transgression was a strong motivation to play by the rules.  And the name of the game was accountability. Actions had consequences, and you broke the rules at your own peril. But this does not seem to be what we are witnessing today. Criminals often contravene the law repeatedly with relative impunity. Without the threat of penalties, criminals are de-risked and empowered.   Recent protest activity on American campuses reflects similar circumstances.  Students have been conditioned to function in an insulated atmosphere where they do not fear repercussions for their actions, and in fact feel entitled dictate the terms of their association with colleges and universities. In this episode I’ll explore how the notions of accountability and permanent records have changed, and why students (and faculty) need to pay attention to both.

EdUp Insights with Bill Pepicello is part of the EdUp Experience Podcast Network.