WGU Participates in Academic Integrity Day of Action

By Dr. Chris Kline, Senior Manager, Academic Authenticity

Academic integrity matters in all we do and is a fundamental premise here at WGU. This idea emphasizes several of our institutional priorities, including the value of the WGU degree and the need for all learners to demonstrate authentic, individual competency. One way in which WGU honors the importance of academic integrity is by participating in the International Center for Academic Integrity’s (ICAI) annual Day of Action for Academic Integrity, which will be held on Oct. 18.

This year’s Day of Action features a notable shift. In previous years, the event has centered around the concept of contract cheating. By its very nature, contract cheating is a key area to spotlight, as it directly identifies one of the most pressing challenges facing academic integrity. However, this year’s shift in focus to the more general notion of academic integrity highlights the continued development of threats that must be acknowledged and addressed through awareness and action. Accordingly, this year’s specific theme is, “Championing academic integrity in the age of AI.” 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is an especially pertinent topic to feature because of the technology’s rapid emergence. In announcing this year’s theme, ICAI stated on their website, “This theme connects the need for staff and students to champion academic integrity in their institutions and beyond, and the current situation with AI which is having a profound effect on Higher Education.” As technology continues to evolve and advance, we all have a responsibility to remain aware of challenges that arise and vigilant about protecting our priorities.

Regardless of the technology that may develop, this event highlights the fundamental relevance of academic integrity for everyone engaged in a learning community. It is a day to recognize and embrace our responsibility to promote and preserve a culture of academic integrity. While this is our focus every day at WGU, we are proud to both support and participate in the ICAI day!

WGU’s participation in the Day of Action will include targeted outreach via official university social media accounts, with a variety of other events coinciding with this year’s theme. If you or your organization would like to participate, visit ICAI’s Day of Action web page for more information about online events, resources, and contests.