Integrity

Children are not born with integrity or the behaviours we associate with it like honesty, honour, respect, authenticity, social responsibility, and the courage to stand up for what they believe is right. It is derived through a process of cultural socialization—influences from all spheres of a child’s life. In their school environments, students acquire these values and behaviours from adult role models and peers, and in particular, through an understanding of the principles of academic integrity. When students learn integrity in classroom settings, it helps them apply similar principles to other aspects of their lives.

Most K-12 educators recognize that the students they teach today will become the leaders of tomorrow. Academic curriculum is constantly updated to meet the increasing demands of a changing knowledge society. 

McCartha, M. Academic Integrity. [Online Image] Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/academic-integrity-monique-mccartha

Five Ways Teachers Develop a Culture of Integrity

1. Infuse integrity into the classroom culture.

2. Develop a moral vocabulary.

·       Responsibility

·       Respect

·       Fairness

·       Trustworthiness

·       Honesty

3. Respond appropriately when cheating occurs.

4. Use quotes to ignite meaningful conversations.

“A Cheater at School is a Cheater in Life. American philosopher, John Dewey, once said “education is not preparation for life; education is life itself””. ~ Zainab Al Hammadi

5. Help students believe in themselves. 

When young people learn to believe in themselves, dishonesty and disrespect no longer make much sense. Living with integrity becomes a way of life.

Promoting Academic Integrity in the Classroom