Despite your efforts to promote academic integrity, you may still encounter suspected violations. When this happens, it’s essential to handle the situation promptly and professionally. Here’s a guide to addressing these issues effectively:

Avoid Delays

Respond as soon as you’re aware of a potential violation. If cheating occurs during an exam, let the student complete the assessment but address the matter with them afterward. Acting promptly is critical, as ignoring suspected misconduct can unintentionally encourage others to cheat.

Prepare for the Conversation

Before meeting with the student, focus on:

1. Being clear: Explain the behavior you find problematic (describe what happened).
2. Being compassionate: Approach the conversation as an opportunity for learning, understanding that students may feel distressed.
3. Being candid: Be honest about your perspective on the incident and the implications.

You should discuss the issue with the student before taking further action, including submitting a report. Document the conversation and decision afterward.

Conduct the Meeting

1. Start by sharing your concerns. For example: “I noticed something unusual about your recent exam and want to discuss it with you.”
2. Invite the student to explain their perspective: “Can you walk me through your process for completing this assignment?”
3. Follow up with additional questions relevant to the suspected violation.
4. Outline your next steps. These could include:

• Taking time to reflect on their response before deciding how to proceed.
• Submitting a report through Faculty Central, as required.

Report All Suspected Violations

All suspected academic integrity violations must be reported through Faculty Central, regardless of whether you decide to adjust the student’s grade or take other action in your class. This reporting is crucial to help your college or school dean identify patterns and address recurring issues for the same student across multiple courses. By documenting the incident, you contribute to maintaining the integrity of the academic community and ensuring appropriate follow-up.

Maintain Your Commitment to Academic Integrity at Vanguard

Student reactions may vary widely, from denial to distress to admission. Regardless of their response, it is your professional and ethical responsibility to report the suspected violation. This ensures fairness and accountability while supporting the broader effort to uphold academic standards.

Back to Main Page (Scroll to bottom of page for links to series) – How to Foster Academic Integrity

This content draws inspiration from the  University of California San Diego Academic Integrity website. They also provide a Reinforcing Academic Integrity in the Age of AI: A Guide for Instructors, which offers additional recommendations for how to craft a GenAI policy for your courses.