Abstract:

Integrity is often related to acting ethically on the basis of intrinsic motivation, rather than external controls. The disconcerting spike in misconduct cases in the pandemic-related, uninvigilated, remote learning environments has made it clear how far away from promoting integrity and its fundamental values (ICAI, 2021) over mere rule compliance we really are. Arguably, these fundamental values are relational in nature, and moving them from distant aspirational goals to strong principles of action requires a sense of responsibility and commitment within community. Restorative Practices (RP), when applied not only in response to misconduct, but also as a proactive community building tool, have been shown to be an effective way of preventing misconduct by fostering a sense of trust and community, empowering marginalized individuals and communities, pursuing and demonstrating fairness, as well as fostering empathy, compassion, and accountability.

This webinar will provide a brief introduction to the principles of RP, a debunking of common myths associated with RP, an overview of their application to academic integrity and misconduct at MacEwan University, Canada, and finally, an opportunity ask questions related to a potential adoption of RP at your institution (e.g., integration into policy, generating buy-in, training requirements, and necessary resources).

Bio: Paul Sopcak, PhD, is Coordinator of the Office of Student Conduct, Community Standards and Values, at MacEwan University, where he also teaches philosophy and comparative literature.

Webinar Link 

Academic Integrity And Restorative Practices Slides