New framework for investigating academic misconduct published

In response to a need identified by members, the National Academic Integrity Network has developed and published a Framework for Academic Misconduct Investigation and Case Management, a new publication that sets out a framework for the identification, recording and management of cases of academic misconduct within higher education institutions (HEIs).

With academic misconduct case management forming an important aspect of the wider national and institutional approach to academic integrity, the purpose of the new Framework is to help support the development of a common approach across HEIs, not least by supporting and enabling systems for robust decision-making, management and recording of academic misconduct cases.

The Framework makes use of the lifecycle and takes a holistic approach, which encompasses, all dimensions of academic integrity. Recognizing that a restorative approach that embeds the principles of academic integrity is fundamental to ensuring successful outcomes, it addresses both supportive and punitive approaches and promotes the adoption of a systematic approach to managing academic misconduct.

The Framework has been designed to empower staff to engage more easily with academic misconduct while ensuring a consistent, fair and equitable approach for all, and can be applied to the management of all forms of academic misconduct including, but not limited to, examinations managed at institutional level and assessments overseen by schools or departments.

Finally, the examples and resource materials contained within the document are being made available to institutions to aid them in the development of policies and processes that meet their particular needs, structures and contexts.

Thanks are due to the NAIN Working Group 1 members, and in particular the two co-chairs, Yvonne Kavanagh (SETU) and Aisling Reast (RCSI) who led on the project, and have enabled  the production of this valuable extensive new resource.

The full publication is available to access below, as is a special episode of the NAIN podcast introducing the framework, with QQI's Sue Hackett in conversation with both co-chairs.