April 2003

Up for discussion: Academic integrity

	Students Kristin Licking, left, and Jozi Hall help peers learn from mistakes. (Julia Ann Easley/News Service)

Have you raised a child who won't cheat? Some parents feel certain enough to say, "Yes, absolutely!" But many will answer, "I don't know Ö but I hope so." Either way, a parent who understands the conventions of academic integrity in college can help a son or daughter navigate unfamiliar areas and make wise decisions -- even under pressure.

UC Davis operates under a Code of Academic Conduct which requires students not only to "be honest at all times" but also to be aware of rules regarding use of sources, use of the Internet and collaboration with peers. Ignorance is no excuse.

Reports of academic dishonesty go to the Office of Student Judicial Affairs, which handles about 500 such referrals each year. In some cases, students -- especially freshmen -- don't realize that they should not give a lab report to a friend, copy from the Internet or re-use a paper from high school.

Professional staff at judicial affairs resolve each case individually, which allows students to explain their circumstances. Later, members of the student-run Campus Judicial Board meet with students to help them reflect on what they have learned.

Despite judicial affairs' emphasis on helping students learn from their mistakes, most parents would prefer that their students avoid this experience entirely.

To that end, the co-chairs of the student board, junior Jozi Hall and senior Kristin Licking, offer the following insights and suggestions.

"Students come from high school where they're used to getting straight A's," begins Licking. "Then they fail a test, even though they think they studied enough." Seeing the possibility of earning something less than A's, they become afraid of disappointing their parents. Mom and Dad can reduce the pressure by "understanding that the majority of students are going to get B's and C's," adds Licking.

"A lot of times people cheat because they simply don't have the skills to succeed in the class," Hall says. "It's important to let students know that Davis has many resources to help them out," she adds, noting the Learning Skills Center as an example.

Some students make the simple mistake of failing to read the class syllabus, in which professors lay out their expectations. If they need further clarification, they can meet with a member of the student board during drop-in hours or check the judicial affairs Web site.

"Parents should also encourage their students to talk with their teachers," advises Licking. "Just go for 15 minutes. You'll feel more connected with your professor. You'll feel more connected with your school. You'll appreciate your education more. You won't want to cheat."

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