Theses and Dissertations
Date of Award
2014
Document Type
Dissertation - NSU Access Only
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Abraham S. Fischler School of Education
Advisor
Gordon Doctorow
Committee Member
Michael Simonson
Keywords
Education, Educational technology, Academic Integrity, Cheating, Community College, Online, Safeguards
Abstract
Cheating in Online Classes: A Preliminary Investigation, Mirella Baker Bemmel, 2014: Applied Dissertation, Nova Southeastern University, Abraham S. Fischler School of Education. ERIC Descriptors: Cheating, Online, Academic Integrity, Community College, Safeguards
This applied dissertation was an inquiry into the phenomenon of cheating among students who take their classes online. There is a common perception that cheating is rampant in online classes and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the accreditation association in the South, implemented policies, which mandate stricter monitoring of students. In turn, colleges have reevaluated or implemented integrity policies, but there is inconsistent enforcement of said policies.
Online faculty at three Florida community colleges were invited to complete a modified version of the Academic Integrity Survey, which provided insights into their perception of cheating, their awareness and enforcement of institutional policies regarding cheating and safeguards used or desired. The survey was followed up with an eight-member focus group discussion, and the results were triangulated.
An analysis of the data revealed that faculty is uncertain about the extent of cheating at their college, but most take action once they discover an instance of cheating. Their reaction to cheating may not necessarily be in line with the institutional policy although they are aware of the required steps. Different safeguards are used to protect the integrity of their courses, but there is an apparent lack of knowledge about available safeguards and their use.
NSUWorks Citation
Mirella G. Baker Bemmel. 2014. Cheating in Online Classes: A Preliminary Investigation. Doctoral dissertation. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, Abraham S. Fischler School of Education. (37)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/fse_etd/37.