Prevalence, prevention, and pedagogical techniques: Academic integrity and ethical professional practice among stem students

Abstract

Although work in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields underlies the innovations that characterize living in the age of information, some research points to a public distrust of science and technology. While distrust may partly result from larger social trends, the public’s trust in science also relies on the integrity of individuals in STEM fields. Most often academic integrity is discussed in terms of cheating and plagiarism violations. However, given the need for STEM professionals to act ethically, any definition of academic integrity in STEM should reflect professional standards for ethical practice. This chapter reviews these standards and discusses how they can inform conceptualizations of and policies around academic integrity in STEM education. The chapter also explores the prevalence of and causes underlying academic integrity violations in STEM and examines the methods for promoting academic integrity among STEM students. The chapter concludes by identifying research directions that may inform efforts to promote integrity among STEM students and professionals.