A conceptual framework for implementing exemplary academic integrity policy in Australian higher education

Abstract

This chapter proposes a conceptual framework for implementing exemplary academic integrity policy (the elements of which were identified by the Australian Office for Learning and Teaching (OLT)-funded Academic Integrity Standards Project [2010—2012]: access, approach, responsibility, detail, and support) to assist higher education providers improve academic integrity at their institutions. At the center of the framework is a commitment to a culture of academic integrity. The follow-up OLT-funded Exemplary Academic Integrity Project [2012—2013] identified six components which contribute to the development of this culture, including academic integrity champions, academic integrity education for staff and students, robust decision-making systems, record keeping for evaluation, and regular review of policy and process. The framework emphasizes a paradigm shift from misconduct to integrity and recognizes that academic integrity champions initiate and lead change, working with students as partners. It is recommended that the role of academic integrity breach data be broadened to include evaluation for improving educational practice.