Contact Academic Integrity
Math and Computer Building, room 1068
University of Waterloo
200 University Avenue West
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G1
academic.integrity@uwaterloo.ca
Research demonstrates that effective assessment strategies reduce academic misconduct. Specifically, strategies such as low stakes assessments, authentic assessments, and engaging students in discussions on academic integrity can help reduce misconduct (Bretag et al., 2019). Read on to hear how UWaterloo instructors are utilizing academic integrity assessment strategies in the online environment.
Ross Willard is a Professor in Pure Mathematics. He focusses on maximizing learning opportunities for students while mitigating misconduct by encouraging them to work in groups and cite any outside sources. His strategies include:
Linda Carson was a Continuing Lecturer at the Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business. She used authentic discussions with students about academic integrity and gives students the opportunity to practise good scholarship skills. Her strategies included:
Instructors can ask students to sign the following academic integrity agreements when completing assignments and tests:
Implementing the use of a signed form can help reduce academic misconduct (Ely, Henderson & Wachsman, 2014; Konhheim-Kalkstein, 2006). In particular, research demonstrates that signing an academic integrity form in a non-proctored environment can decrease instances of cheating (Ely, Henderson & Wachsman, 2014). Instructors should introduce the form to be signed by students and discuss the intent behind its use.
The form is a reminder that academic integrity is important, and that each student is personally committing, by their signature, to uphold the values of integrity and honestly demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the topic at hand. Being explicit and specific about prohibited behavior makes it easier for students to understand and avoid (Whitley & Keith-Speigel, 2001).
Instructors can use infographic icons on assessments to clearly indicate to students the level of collaboration acceptable, authorized aids, and unauthorized aids. Download and use the templates and icons (PPT).
The OAI has both an academic integrity module and an academic integrity quiz for instructors to use in their Learn courses.
Math and Computer Building, room 1068
University of Waterloo
200 University Avenue West
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G1
academic.integrity@uwaterloo.ca
The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.