Overview
The International Center for Academic Integrity (ICAI) defines academic integrity as “a commitment, even in the face of adversity, to six fundamental values: honesty, trust, fairness, respect, responsibility, and courage.” This definition goes beyond stopping student cheating and plagiarism; it focuses on developing high-character digital and academic citizens. By integrating these values into the culture of our classrooms, we can help our students develop a strong sense of academic integrity.
Strategies
- Develop a class definition of academic integrity.
- Review the definition in The Fundamental Values of Academic Integrity (Third Edition) from the International Center for Academic Integrity.
- Discuss with students reasons they may be tempted to cheat.
- Generate examples and non-examples with your students.
- Model academic integrity.
- Use plagiarism checkers.
- Use classroom monitoring software.
- Redesign assessments from tests to authentic performance and creation.
Digital Resources
Here is a list of resources to aid your considerations around academic integrity:
Integration Ideas
Perhaps the best way to develop a culture of academic integrity in your classroom is to involve and empower your students in the process. For example, define academic integrity as a class using T-Charts or Y-Charts. You can then compare your class definition to the six foundational values developed by the International Center for Academic Integrity. Plagiarism checkers can be shared with students, so they can assess and improve their own work, rather than having the teacher use this as a “gotcha” tool. Similarly, use classroom monitoring software to facilitate student questions rather than simply as a way to catch students cheating. By involving students and establishing a positive, trusting, and open environment, we can help them become responsible digital and academic citizens.
How can I learn more?
For more information about academic integrity, explore the following AVID Open Access articles: Maintain Academic Integrity and Approaches to Addressing ChatGPT and Academic Integrity.