ACADEMIC INTEGRITY – A CASE OF BILINGUAL VIDEO NARRATIVE AND AWARENESS CREATION

The paper examines the efficacy of digital video narrative in support of academic integrity. This study was based at a leading university in United Arab Emirates. Upon entering the institution all freshmen are required to commit to the highest standards of academic honesty and rigor. Although located in the Arab world, the university language of instruction is exclusively in English. However, many students struggle with the academic levels of English language proficiency. Consequently, at times some consider to shortcuts as means of academic success. The core research question in this study is whether students across the university would be more introspective about plagiarism if they are encouraged to reconsider their freshmen pledge via bilingual digital video narrative. A sample of students from various majors and years of studies have responded to a survey of their attitudes in two preconditions – before and after seeing the digital video narrative. The assessment of the responses shows an increase of self-awareness and self-reflection about academic integrity and its impact on their studies. In conclusion the paper identifies a useful path to reinforce academic integrity discussions and consideration on an ongoing bases.