CAUSES OF ACADEMIC DISHONESTY AMONG SENIOR SCHOOL STUDENTS IN DELHI

Abstract

Academic dishonesty is a growing concern at all levels in the Indian education system today. Despite being illegal, it has flourished to an extend of becoming endemic. With technology making it easier to have access to different tools, students are faced with a decision to choose academic integrity or academic dishonesty. Cheating during exams, fabricating, excuses for incomplete work, trying to give bribes to obtain grades are all examples of academic dishonesty. It can be classified broadly as yet another form of corruption. With increasing demands, stressors, and pressure, students may choose academic dishonesty over academic integrity. The objective of the present paper is to study the students’ perception with regards to the causes of academic dishonesty amongst them. A self constructed inventory was administered for collecting the data and 50 senior secondary school students from Delhi were taken as sample for the study. Findings reveal that requirement of good grades for getting admission in colleges, cheating done by the classmates/others, being school itself is the centre for examination and failure as a matter of shame are found vital reasons for academic dishonesty among students.

The findings of the present study would contribute in developing a sense of sincerity, integrity and responsibility towards the society among the pupils. This will help in creating an honest and corruption free society in the times to come.