Rebecca Clifford, RN, DNP, CRNA

DNP Nurse Anesthesia

Academic Integrity Among Graduate Healthcare Students

Project Category:  Original Research 

Project Team: Rebecca Clifford, DNP, CRNA, Aamna Dosani, DNP, CRNA, Luke Ferencak, DNP, CRNA, Advisor, Dr. Lori Anderson, DNP, CRNA, APRN, FAANA 

Abstract

Background: Throughout academia, faculty, organizations, and regulatory accreditation agencies have dedicated significant attention to identifying and preventing breaches in academic integrity. This study endeavored to elucidate the frequency, perceptions, and driving forces behind incidences of academic dishonesty specific to graduate healthcare students. 

Methods: A descriptive study using an anonymous electronic survey was sent to graduate students in health profession majors. The 58-question survey targeted motivators of academic integrity violations, student supplied definitions, and scenario analysis. Quantitative data were reported using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data were synthesized using grounded theory.

Results: A total of 156 participants responded to the survey invitation. Demographic data demonstrated that the sample was representative of the overall student population. Twenty-five percent of participants estimated that the majority of their educational program was conducted remotely. Twenty-one percent admitted to past academic dishonesty, and 35.4% knew a peer who had cheated. Since COVID-19, 10% of participants have violated academic integrity. Twenty-six percent believed students can still cheat in remote settings, where cheating is easier than during in-person testing. Key motivators for academic dishonesty included stress and pressure to succeed.

Conclusion: Survey responses demonstrated a strong sense of academic integrity but there was some disagreement regarding what constitutes dishonesty, indicating a need for better education on this topic. Respondents were hesitant to report peers' dishonest behavior. Exploring remote testing management and alternative exam formats could improve the integrity of future testing.