International Students and Academic Misconduct: Considering Culture, Community, and Context

Abstract

International students experience unique challenges that place them at risk for academic misconduct violations, including language, academic expectations, cultural differences, academic preparedness, and policy understanding. Academic misconduct issues can significantly risk student success, leaving international students especially susceptible to the academic, financial, and social consequences of an academic misconduct violation. This overview of research on academic misconduct and international students describes trends in research for those countries identified as receivers and suppliers of international students, the role of culture in academic misconduct research, and considerations for future research and practice. The resulting summary offers considerations for researchers, institutions, and educators to actively respond to these students’ needs in culturally meaningful ways. Three decades of research provides a global context to international students’ academic challenges and how stakeholders have and continue to use these findings to further research and support students wherever they may learn.