This phenomenon has always existed, and is more famously known as the 'PLZ SEND TEH CODEZ' phenomenon. What happens is that rookie coders get in way over their heads and are unlikely to finish their tasks regardless of the amount of support received. In a desperate last attempt, they turn to the internet looking for a saviour who will hand them a complete solution.

IMO, the best thing you can do in this situation is to inform them that they won't get their homework done for them, and what type of questions are considered reasonable.