Date Approved

Fall 2002

Graduate Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Education (M.Ed.)

Degree Program

College of Education

Abstract

This research is a study of 147 high school freshman science students at Forest Hills Central High School. A survey was given to each student regarding academic dishonesty in science classes. This survey was taken voluntarily and each student was given identical surveys. The data was then collected, combined and analyzed. Results indicated that cheating among 9th grade science students occurs every day at Central High School, regardless of sex or academic achievement, and is common practice. Freshman students participate in academically dishonest behavior less currently than they did a year ago. Although they are afraid of getting caught, most freshman science students have not been caught cheating. Those that have witnessed another student engaging in unethical behavior in science class have not told the teacher. Furthermore, the freshman science students at Forest Hills Central High School feel that cheating is ethically wrong. Lastly, male students and students with lower grade point averages have a greater propensity to engage in academically dishonest behavior.

This thesis also offers suggestions on how to eliminate the temptation a student may have to cheat in class. Furthermore, this thesis provides a list of helpful hints, tips, and strategies to minimize a student’s opportunity to cheat or consider other acts of academic dishonesty inside and outside of the classroom.

Comments

Questions or concerns regarding the copyright status of this item may be directed to scholarworks@gvsu.edu.

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