Navigating Academic Integrity: What to Do When a Peer Cheats
Academic integrity is a fundamental principle that should guide every student. But what do you do if you suspect a classmate of cheating and you have proof? This article explores the best course of action, emphasizing the importance of ethical decision-making and the consequences of unscrupulous behavior.
Pragmatic Acceptance and Humility
The first step in dealing with a peer who has cheated is to acknowledge the reality of the situation. Accept that your classmate may have cheated and gained high grades through underhanded means. Demonstrating humility, it's beneficial to congratulate them, as this maintains a positive professional relationship, even as you plan to address the issue. Acknowledge their short-lived success but be careful not to condone or support their misdeeds.
Actions and Reactions
Mature and level-headed students understand that maintaining personal integrity is paramount. They remain calm and composed, choosing to focus on their own efforts rather than reacting against the cheater. Remember, the cheater is likely to become complacent over time; they may become careless and make mistakes, especially if they rely too heavily on their unethical methods. You should also be patient, as any resolution will take time.
Anonymous Reporting for Unlikable Cheaters
If the cheater is particularly unlikable and seems to deserve a shock, you can choose to remain anonymous but provide full details to the school officials. An anonymous message to the test proctor, detailing the method of cheating, can be left without revealing any names. This ensures that the cheating is reported while preserving your anonymity. However, if the cheating behavior is severe and motivated by a consistent pattern of dishonesty, reporting to higher authorities can be crucial.
Procedures for Reporting Cheating
Most schools have an honesty of conduct clause, which obligates students to report cheating. If you suspect cheating, approach your instructor in a quiet and private setting, such as their office, rather than a public space like the student union. Request anonymity as your first step; your instructor cannot disclose your identity without your consent. Bring all evidence you have with you.
The process of addressing cheating involves several steps. Initially, the instructor may suggest contacting the department head or chair. This can take the entire Spring semester to resolve. If the department head deems it necessary, the case will move to the dean and eventually to the provost. An academic integrity meeting/trial may be held, and there may be an opportunity for appeal, which varies by school.
Focus on Your Studies
The best course of action is to stay focused on your own academic performance. Keep your eyes on your own work and avoid any temptation to look at what others are doing. Cheating may provide a momentary advantage, but it ultimately robs the cheater of the knowledge they need for long-term success. Those who cheat in one area of their life will likely continue to do so until they get caught, at which point the consequences are often much more severe than they anticipated.
Final Thoughts
Encourage your cheating peer to confess and turn themselves in, providing them with a deadline to do so. By putting the choice in their hands, you give them the opportunity to take responsibility for their actions. If they have a conscience, it will likely force them to do the right thing. Remember, while others may be fooled by their actions, they cannot fool themselves about the morality of what they have done.
By taking these steps, you uphold the principles of academic integrity and contribute to a fair and just academic environment.