The Academic Ethics Of Students In Principles Of Economics

Abstract

Questionnaires on academic ethics were completed by 115 students enrolled in principles of economics at a state university.  Ninety-seven percent admitted to having engaged in at least 1 of 16 academic practices while a university student considered unethical in the literature.  Levels of participation in specific practices ranged from 20% to 88% and were unrelated to student characteristics.  Students participated more in practices they rated less unethical.  Primary reasons for participation were that students wanted high grades and did not use available time to study.  Effects of academic dishonesty on institutions and ways of limiting dishonest behavior are discussed.