In the digital age, the shift towards online education has been accelerated, particularly in disciplines like accounting. However, this shift brings with it a new set of challenges, primarily concerning academic integrity. Jenelle K. Conaway and Taylor Wiesen dive into this issue in their article, „Academic Dishonesty in Online Accounting Assessments—Evidence on the Use of Academic Resource Sites,“ published in the 2023 issue of Issues in Accounting Education.
The study specifically focuses on the rising trend of academic dishonesty through the use of Academic Resource Sites (ARS) like Chegg.com. These platforms, which offer on-demand homework solutions and expert assistance, have become hotspots for students seeking unauthorized help during online exams. The ease of access to such sites has raised significant concerns about the integrity of online assessments in accounting courses.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the surge in online education led to an increased reliance on these ARS. The study reveals startling statistics: between 13–25 percent of students in intermediate accounting courses used Chegg during exams. This is particularly concerning given the rapid shift to online education and the lack of robust safeguards in many institutions.
The research also delves into the effectiveness of mitigation policies to curb the use of ARS. Findings indicate that stricter policies and increased awareness can attenuate the misuse of these resources. Additionally, the study explores students’ attitudes towards academic dishonesty and ARS usage, providing insights into the ethical considerations of today’s accounting students.
This paper is crucial not only for educators grappling with the challenges of online teaching but also for institutions striving to uphold academic standards in a digital world. The findings underscore the need for effective strategies to combat academic dishonesty and ensure the integrity of online education, particularly in fields like accounting where precision and ethical practice are paramount.
The implications of this study extend beyond the realm of education into the broader workforce, as employers increasingly scrutinize the integrity and quality of online degrees. Addressing these challenges head-on is essential for maintaining the credibility and value of online accounting education.
For those interested in understanding the complexities and solutions related to academic integrity in online learning, Conaway and Wiesen’s article provides a thorough and insightful analysis. The full article is available for a deeper exploration of their findings and recommendations here.