Guilty or innocent, students investigated for contract cheating have a horrible time

Deakin U researchers Penelope Pitt, Kevin Dullaghan and Wendy Sutherland-Smith talked to students who underwent a formal university investigation. They found people involved did not tell their families about the allegation, suffered “reputational damage” on campus and were acutely vigilant about assignments in the future. Students also see university investigations as a legal process, which contributes to stress.

The authors suggest investigations should be “primarily a learning experience” which students survive and move on from, to complete their courses.

They propose process changes, including; * easing up on the legalese, * assisting students and staff in the process, * independent assistance for students facing allegations, * specific advice in academic integrity training, “to ensure students understand good writing practises,” and * “raise awareness of the myriad consequences for contract cheating.”