Maintaining Your Academic Integrity in Online Learning

Many aspects of our semester have changed significantly, but our responsibility for academic integrity has not. Continue to observe the Institutional Rules, treat all exams and assignments as if you were in-person to complete them, and maintain the highest standards of academic integrity during this period online learning. If you need to meet with Student Conduct staff, meetings are available using Zoom or over the phone. If you have any questions, please email Student Conduct.

Academic Integrity and Conduct Concerns for Online Learning

Decorum in the Online Classroom

All classes will now be conducted online using tools including Canvas and Zoom. Zoom has helpful features and you should use them as though you were sitting in class next to your instructor. Misuse of the Zoom platform and disruptions of the online classroom will be treated just as if you disrupted a physical classroom. Some things to be aware of that could help you avoid an Institutional Rules violation:

• Follow any instructor directives on how to use the platform. If you are unsure, ask.
• Log into Zoom using your EID and password, which is likely a requirement to start Zoom up.
• If you use a virtual background, use something that everyone would feel comfortable seeing. The simpler, the better.
• Only enter classes you are enrolled in.
• Do not share your screen unless told to.
• Stay muted with your video off unless otherwise told.
• Do not use the chat function in Zoom unless otherwise told
• When participating, treat your participation as if it were in person.

Academic Integrity in the Online Classroom

The Honor Code and Institutional Rules apply during online instruction. You are expected to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity in the online learning environment. Here are some categorized tips and suggestions to help you maintain strong academic integrity practices while online:

• Awareness:
  • Review your responsibilities in the Institutional Rules, especially Section 11-402.
  • (Re)read your course syllabi. Familiarize yourself with any updates your instructors sent out when classes moved online.
  • Follow all direction from your instructors on how the online classroom is to function. If you are unsure what they mean, or if something is ambiguous, ask them for clarification. It is your responsibility to find out more about something you do not understand.
  • Many online resources can track your access into their systems. Don't assume your instructors won't be aware of potential academic misconduct because students aren't on campus.
• Communication
  • Ask your instructors and TAs for any clarification you need and don't rely only on your peers. Your classmates might not have the right answers.
  • Use caution with group messaging apps. They can be helpful studying resources, but it is easy to cross the line into academic dishonesty. It is your responsibility to monitor what is going on in any group chats you are a part of. If you are concerned prohibited material is being shared (ex. exam answers), remove yourself from the group/chat and let your instructor know of your concerns. If you are unsure what is prohibited, ask your instructor.
  • Don't copy or distribute course material unless you have explicit permission.
• Classwork and Exams:
  • Assume all work is to be done individually unless otherwise stated.
  • If a professor places an assessment on Canvas and requires any exam security software (ex. Proctorio), follow all instructions as to its use. Prepare in advance and try the software in advance.
    • Run an online class pre-check before your exam.
  • During an exam or timed assignment, presume you need to be alone with no notes or other resources available to you unless other instructions are given. If you are unsure, ask your instructor.
  • Ensure all work is yours and is original to you.

Be Proactive

One of the best ways to avoid academic dishonesty is to manage your time and study habits. Visit this Sanger Learning Center resource on how to adjust your studying habits for the online classroom. Texas One Stop Keep Learning is another resource for your success in online learning.

If You Are Suspected of an Institutional Rules Violation

The student conduct process prioritizes due process. You will receive instructions through email from your instructor or Student Conduct staff. Keep any documents, emails, chats, or other evidence that could help you if you believe the suspicion is in error. Your instructor and/or Student Conduct staff will meet with you to hear your side and review your evidence. They will also fully explain the conduct process and your rights to you.