Perceptions of nursing students and faculty members towards academic integrity and professionalism in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Maintaining and nourishing academic integrity along with professionalism in nursing education is integral and imperative to the development of the nursing profession. However, evidence shows that academic dishonesty and incompetency exist and are raising problems among college students of all disciplines including nursing. To date, limited studies have been conducted in this area in Saudi Arabia.

Objectives: To determine the perceptions of nursing students and faculty members towards academic integrity and professionalism.

Design: A cross-sectional design.

Settings and participants: A convenience sample of undergraduate students enrolled in government universities in Saudi Arabia, and their faculty members.

Methods: 342 Saudi nursing students and 113 nursing faculty members were surveyed with a valid and reliable questionnaire modified to the study setting.

Results: Findings revealed that the majority of nursing students and faculty members were aware of the nature of academic dishonesty and unprofessionalism. Less 40 % of students and teachers reported academic dishonesty and unprofessionalism as frequent. The majority of respondents in both groups revealed there were no existing policies in their colleges relevant to academic integrity/dishonesty. For those who reported the presence of a policy, the highest percentage of the respondents expressed just occasional implementation. There was no significant difference between the perceptions of students and faculty in all scenarios regarding academic integrity and professionalism. Lastly, the level of education and affiliated nursing college was associated with the respondents' perceptions.

Conclusions: Nursing students and faculty members have considerable cognizance of the concept of academic integrity and professionalism. However, the occurrence of academic dishonesty and unprofessionalism was observed at both universities. The lack of established policies is a particular challenge for management. Hence, it is essential that educational institutions formulate clear academic policies that cultivate academic integrity, prevent academic dishonesty, and enhance the level of professionalism.

Keywords: Academic dishonesty; Academic integrity; Faculty member; Nursing student; Professionalism.