Abiding by the Honor Code - By: Laura Lyons

The word “cheater” tends to stir up intense emotions for many different people: those who have cheated, those who have caught the cheater, and those who have been used for their intelligence by cheaters. The quick glance at another person’s test paper, if intercepted by someone else, is enough to send many teachers over the edge. Cheaters are sometimes caught, but some are so good that they will never even be suspected, much less apprehended. Sadly, these cheaters manage to treat many people unfairly with their one action. The person the cheater copied from likely studied very hard and worked for their good grade. The cheater himself is posing as someone he isn’t, thus fooling many others. The rest of the class who also did their work honestly can rightfully say they have been treated unfairly as well, which brings the grand total of affected people to much more than just two or three.

Sadly, implementing an honor code has both its benefits and downfalls. For instance, cheaters who do not have an ounce of moral fiber will ignore honor codes, while students who care about their grades appreciate the trust that comes with their university implementing an honor code.

The very first honor code in the United States was put into place over 230 years ago at The College of William & Mary at the insistence of Thomas Jefferson, who was the mayor of Virginia at the time. Since that time, the honor code has been implemented in various forms by a plethora of universities, as well as by many federal military academies in the United States. One university in particular has implemented a very strict honor code: Brigham Young University. Their code mandates more than just academics; no wearing revealing clothing, men must be clean shaven, and other rules regarding virtuous living.

At Vanderbilt University, a plaque adorns the student life center with a quote by a previous chancellor, Madison Sarratt: "Today I give you two examinations, one in trigonometry and one in honesty. I hope you pass them both, but if you must fail one, let it be trigonometry for there are many good men in this world today who cannot pass an examination in trigonometry, but there are no good men in the world who cannot pass an examination in honesty.” Sarratt’s words are sure to strike a chord with the students who walk by the plaque and take the time to read it.

However, cheating is not limited to looking at someone’s test paper. While working on your online degree, you will likely have to take exams that are not proctored, which is a caveat to the honor code that can be easily abused. The best advice to follow in order to maintain the honor code is to work as if there is a proctor sitting right next to you. It may be tempting to look up an answer or four, but you will know the true value of your grade and will have to live with knowing that you betrayed the honor code. Being prepared with what you need to know about getting an online degree will help you avoid integrity issues within yourself.

About the Author

Laura Lyons
Your online degree
Getting an online degree

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