Which do we address first, assessment or academic integrity? If one exists without the other, significant issues of assessment validity are rightfully raised. For obvious reasons we want both: valid assessment AND and environment of academic integrity. So, how do we get there?
One way is through a series of rules, tools, proctors, techniques, and technology to make cheating and plagiarism more difficult. These are important elements in the process; however, they are not the most important.
What is paramount is that students understand what academic integrity is, why it is important to UWF faculty, and, most important, why it is important to them. We should have a systematic approach to inculcate the virtues of academic integrity in all UWF students. Prevention is always easier and cheaper than enforcement. While, enforcement may always be necessary, we should strive to reduce the need for enforcement.
Every student coming to UWF should understand what UWF's policies and procedures are regarding academic integrity. Additionally, students should be frequently reminded of UWF's commitment to academic integrity, and our expectations of student academic behavior.
Dr. Athena S. Du Pre, Professor, Communication Arts, and Dr. Ronald W. Belter, Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, developed a short instructional module on the essential principles of academic integrity and a follow-up quiz to ensure that their students understand the concepts. They use the instructional module and the quiz in all of their courses. They have kept detailed records to assess the impact that this module has had on issues of academic integrity in their classes. Their records document a sharp decline in instances of suspected violations of academic integrity.
Below you will find modified versions of both the instructional module on academic integrity and the quiz. The original documents were oriented toward Dr. Du Pre's and Dr. Belter's academic fields. You are encouraged to use all or part of these materials in your course; however, it is recommended that you further modify these materials to correspond to the academic discipline in which they are used.
Additional resources:
Ryerson University’s Office of Academic Integrity (http://www.ryerson.ca/academicintegrity/index.html) has developed a series of outstanding, multi-media tutorials that cover issues of academic integrity, plagiarism, cheating, time management, and others.
We don't know everything (surprise!).
Share your ideas with us and your colleagues!
We know that you have outstanding ideas and techniques that you use daily that enhance the effectiveness of
your teaching and assessment activities.
Inquiring minds would like to know!
If you have any questions about online assessment, please feel free to contact John Crane (jcrane@uwf.edu, 473-7239).
Have a great day!
