Notehall
Notehall was a website and online marketplace where students could buy and sell class notes, study guides, and other course-related materials. Founded in 2009, it aimed to provide a platform for students to monetize their academic work and help other students succeed in their courses.
The platform operated by allowing students to upload their notes and study materials, setting a price for each item. Other students taking the same course or similar courses could then browse the available materials and purchase the documents they found helpful. Notehall took a commission on each sale.
Notehall's business model was controversial. Critics argued that it promoted academic dishonesty by enabling students to rely on the work of others instead of attending classes and creating their own notes. Concerns were also raised about copyright infringement, as some users may have uploaded materials without the permission of the original authors or instructors.
In 2013, Notehall was acquired by Chegg, another online education platform. Chegg discontinued the Notehall service shortly thereafter. While Notehall no longer exists, its existence and business model sparked debate about the ethics of sharing and selling academic notes. The legacy of Notehall is one of innovation in the student study aid market, while also highlighting the challenges surrounding academic integrity and intellectual property in the digital age.