Methods to Address Academic Dishonesty in Distance Learning Programs

Highlights of DLA 2009 Conference

Session 1 - Methods to Address Academic Dishonesty in Distance Learning Programs

We all know that there is a hesitance with many instructors for integrating their classes online. One of the most cited reasons is they are afraid that online environments lend themselves to cheating. As we all know in the field, there is no fail-safe system, but there are some tips and techniques to curb cheating.

The presenter for this presentation was Darryl Hancock from Middle Georgia College. I think the most fascinating idea he presented from his research is that the studies showed that online program and schools who have honor codes and integrity policies clearly stated, are less likely to have cheating.

He also stressed that there needs to be clear cut guidelines on what is constituted as academic dishonesty. He stated that if a quiz or assessment does not clearly state that you cannot use your book, then it really is up to the interpretation of the student. If you do not want them to use a book, this should be stated in easy to understand language before they take the assessment.

This goes for assignments as well. If you do not want them to collaborate and it to be an individual assignment, you must stress this to the student in the instructions for the assignment. Often what an instructor thinks is cheating, may not be conveyed to the student and they do not understand when they are penalized.

In the end, it was stated that you should have multiple ways to assess the student and try your best to place layers and obstacles in their way (basically make it an annoyance for them to cheat), and this should curb some of the cheating.