According to IGI Global, academic ethics is directed by respect for ethical beliefs and values, and the dignity and rights of others.

Academic ethics is much more than avoiding dishonest practices such as copying during exams, plagiarizing, or contracting to cheat. It implies an engagement with learning and work which is well done, complete, and focused on a good purpose – learning. It also involves using appropriate means, genuine effort, and good skills. Mainly it implies diligently taking advantage of all learning experiences.

As a student, for me, academic ethics is essential in any teaching-learning process focused on achieving the highest standards of excellence and learning. In addition to the work carried out by the basic educational system, I firmly believe that schools must also fully form and develop the moral vision and purpose of their students since it is not possible to consider professional education separate from ethical formation. Being a professional must include not only mastery of technical, practical, and/or theoretical competencies, but also personal integrity and ethical professional behavior that helps to give an ethical meaning to all student’s endeavors. Educators must also lead by example. They must enforce the regulations and procedures in the Academic Ethics Policy, and take appropriate action in case of violations.

Moreover, in line with this topic, I also want to share one of my experiences. I know that all of us have different goals in life. We go to school to graduate and some of us aim to have awards and honors. I am one of the students who aim to be at the top of the class. I was a candidate for Magna cum Laude in the Philippines. However, I have a classmate who was close to one of our teachers, and she asked him for a favor to lower my grade in that subject for her to get the title of magna cum laude. With what had happened, I was just awarded the Cum Laude. For me, the action she and my teacher made was not fair and just at all.

To conclude, academic ethics must revolve around trust, honesty, consideration, and fairness. And, students should always demonstrate honesty and integrity throughout all aspects of their education.

References:

What is academic ethics. IGI Global. (n.d.). Retrieved April 6, 2022, from https://www.igi-global.com/dictionary/leadership/85744#:~:text=1.,Ethical%20Architects%20in%20Higher%20Education