Reducing Academic Dishonesty in Your Classes
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What Can You Do to Reduce Academic Dishonesty?
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When giving a multiple-choice test, use more than one version of the test. This can be accomplished by randomizing the order of the questions and/or the order of the potential answers.
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Do not allow ANY electronics to be out during testing (calculators are the exception). Ideally, cell phones should be turned off and kept in book bags at the front of the room. Watches and Bluetooth earbuds should also be removed.
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Have writing utensils available for use so students aren’t asking one another to borrow one.
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Create a random, unique seating chart that is only used on exam days.
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Provide clear and concise instructions (verbally and in your syllabus) regarding the amount of acceptable collaboration on coursework.
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Provide clear and precise instructions (verbally and in your syllabus) regarding materials allowed to be used as resources for assignments. Include a statement regarding these resources and stating that the use of any other resources will be considered a violation of the Academic Integrity Policy.
Why Should I Report Academic Dishonesty?
You Must Report Violations Even When:
- The student says they have never done it before and will never do it again.
- You want to be nice and not get the student in any more trouble. (Unless the student is a repeat offender, no additional sanctions will be given to them when you report a violation.)
- The sanction you assign is only a reduction of a small number of points (ex: 5pts).
By Not Reporting a Violation, You Are:
- Making it difficult to track students who repeatedly violate the Academic Integrity Policy.
- Denying the student their right to appeal.
- Violating the Academic Integrity Policy yourself, as well as regulations outlined in the Faculty Handbook.
- Opening yourself and Missouri State University to the possibility of a lawsuit.