Addressing Contract Cheating in Pakistani Higher Education: Strategies for Upholding Academic Integrity

Abstract

Contract cheating has strained the higher education system worldwide, Pakistan is no exception. However, unlike Canada, UK, USA, Pakistan has limited research related to the issue under discussion. The presence of contract cheating has undermined the academic integrity and academic credibility of higher education in Pakistan. This paper sheds light on the role of Quality Assurance Cells in higher educational institutions including University of Management and Technology, University of the Punjab, Lahore College for Women University and Minhaaj University in addressing this issue and proposes recommendations to foster academic integrity. This paper tries to investigate this complex issue, offering strategies to the institutions for addressing it and fostering a culture of academic integrity. In a pursuit to comprehend contract cheating and devise strategies to eradicate it, this study draws upon Albert Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory. The main assumption of this theory is that behavior is learned through observational learning, personal agency, and self-regulation, influenced by both individual and environmental factors. Applying Social Cognitive Theory to the context of contract cheating allows for a comprehensive understanding of the issue, the factors contributing to it, and the strategies that universities can utilize to mitigate its occurrence. The current study was qualitative in nature. The researchers conducted in-depth interviews of Directors of Quality Assurance s of the universities mentioned above. The responses were thematically analyzed. The participants were asked about the various reasons that compelled the students to engage in contract cheating and how universities can combat it. As per the majority, to combat contract cheating, institutions must adopt a comprehensive framework. This paper recommends five pivotal areas for Pakistani higher education institutions to anticipate when devising strategies against contract cheating. Institutions must design a policy that prevents, detects, and intervenes in contract cheating. This strategy should align with Pakistan's unique cultural and academic landscape. Existing policies/guidelines need to be reviewed to clearly tackle contract cheating. Policies should highlight the consequences of such actions and strengthen institutional commitment to maintain academic integrity. Comprehending students' motivations for contract cheating is very important. Institutions should create platforms for open discussions and offer support services that address academic pressures, fostering ethical behaviors. Assessment methods must evaluate students' understanding and critical thinking instead of simple information replication. Applying various assessment formats like presentations and group work can discourage contract cheating. Educators significantly influence academic integrity. Offering professional development opportunities equips them to detect and prevent contract cheating, cultivating a culture of academic integrity. The issue of contract cheating necessitates collaborative efforts from Pakistani higher education institutions to inculcate a culture of academic integrity. Moreover, approval and implementation of HEC’s draft policy concerning the prevailing issues are proved to be a turning point in Higher Education. By concentrating on multidimensional strategies, institutions can not only address contract cheating concerns but also nurture ethical scholars and professionals.