Student Perceptions of and Attitudes towards Academic Integrity Policies at an Omani University: Do healthcare students differ from others?

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate Omani university students’ perceptions of and attitudes towards academic integrity policies through a comparison between healthcare (nursing and medicine) and non-healthcare students. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted during the 2018–2019 academic year wherein students were asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire. Data were collected from nine colleges at Sultan Qaboos University and analysed. Results: A total of 579 students completed the questionnaire (response rate: 90%). The results revealed that healthcare students have a significantly higher perception of and better attitudes towards academic integrity policies compared to their non-healthcare counterparts. Conclusion: The results of this study should motivate faculty to foster better understanding and implementation of the honour code to encourage an environment of academic integrity for students.

Keywords: Perception; Attitude; Ethics Code; Students; University; Oman.