First-year student's understanding of academic dishonesty : a case study

Abstract

[ACCESS RESTRICTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI AT AUTHOR'S REQUEST.] This case study examines first-year first-time college students’ understanding of academic dishonesty. The study used data from interviews with twenty-seven first-year students at Lyon College, a small, private, liberal arts institution that utilizes a traditional honor code system. Data from direct observations, a physical artifact search, and a document search were also used. Four main themes emerged from the data: (Not) Learning about Academic Dishonesty, Stepping Stone, Degrees of Dishonesty, and Fear. First-year students had a narrow understanding of academic dishonesty and expressed a desire to know more. Students also indicated that fear of losing financial aid or disappointing parents were reasons to engage in academic dishonesty, while the fear of punishment was not a strong deterrent to engaging in academic dishonesty. Further, first-year students were fearful of engaging in collaborative study and asking peers for academic assistance. Specific recommendations for changes to institutional policies and procedures are discussed.