What causes students to cheat in school? Is cheating sometimes ever overused in the definition for using homework websites such as Khan Academy, Quizlet, and other websites that can useful for some people learning differences or anyone to be called a cheater? Ask yourselves, is it true that some websites are unfairly called a cheating or one labeled as academic dishonest impression when it could have a positive viewpoint outside beyond the over corrupted educational institutions? Just do some critical thinking on the subject of academic dishonesty. Calling some people cheater could wrongfully judging the learner, and there's people who are self-educated scholars after awhile in life or self-directed learning/studies because of there differential educational needs.
@Ashley---
I read and re-read this question about cheating. The question you ask is about why some cheat but the remainder of your post seems to me to be suggesting that some we call cheater really aren't cheaters. If I have interpreted your question and post correctly I think you are deflecting and trying to make the case that many people who cheat really aren't cheats if they are upgrading themselves, uplifting themselves, and making themselves better equipped to handle life. That's baloney. No matter how you slice it cheating is cheating. It COULD make you a 100% better, it COULD make you a genius, it COULD make you more/better equipped to handle life BUT when all of the frosting is scraped away and you get down to the cake, you cheated. You can call it what you want but cheating by any other name still is cheating. (Note: When I refer to YOU thoughout I am not referring to you as an individual and I am not accusing you of being a cheater.) The use of Khan Academy is not cheating. I am not familiar with Quizlet. Libre Text is not cheating. Most other web sites to which you allude are not cheating. It is perfectly OK, in my opinion, to click on those web sites, learn about the subject, then use that knowledge to answer a question which you could not answer earlier. But sites like the one you and I are using, in which students openly ask for and acquire answers to unit #?, part ?, items 1 through 20, is cheating no matter how you slice it. The bottom line is no, I don't think cheating is an over used term and no I don't think web sites that teach/explain/give more detail/work example problems/etc are helping cheaters EXCEPT when the student is to take a "closed book" exam and the student accesses those sites to get help while they take the test. I don't want this reply to start a thread that can get lengthy and where some can get sarcastic nor imply wrong things; therefore, this is my one and only contribution to the question. Thank you for your insight and for bring this out into the open.
Cheating in school can have various causes. Some common reasons include the pressure to achieve high grades, the fear of failure or disappointing others, a lack of understanding or preparation, a desire for competitiveness or comparison with peers, and limited consequences or accountability. It is important to note that cheating encompasses a wide range of behaviors, from copying answers during an exam to using unauthorized resources.
Regarding the use of homework websites like Khan Academy or Quizlet, it is essential to differentiate between their intended purpose and how they are utilized by students. These websites are designed to provide educational resources and aid in learning. However, if students use them to access answers or solutions without actually understanding the material, then it can be considered a form of cheating.
The perception of whether using such websites is considered cheating may vary depending on the educational institution's policies and the context in which they are used. Some schools or teachers may consider any use of outside resources during assessments as a violation of academic integrity, while others may allow or even encourage their use. It is crucial to understand and follow the guidelines set by your educational institution and communicate with your teachers to clarify any doubts.
When discussing academic dishonesty, it is essential to approach it critically and consider different perspectives. While some websites can provide valuable learning resources, it is crucial to use them ethically and ensure that they support your understanding and growth rather than solely relying on them for answers. The key is to strike a balance between utilizing online tools for assistance and engaging in genuine learning, comprehension, and critical thinking.
Labeling someone as a "cheater" should not be done lightly, as it can unfairly judge the individual and disregard their unique circumstances or needs. It is important to recognize that different people have different learning styles and educational needs. Self-education and self-directed learning can be legitimate paths to acquiring knowledge, and individuals may choose these paths for various reasons. Nevertheless, it remains important to maintain academic integrity and ensure that learning is genuine and thorough.
In conclusion, the causes of cheating in school can vary, and the perception of using educational websites as cheating depends on how they are utilized and the guidelines of the educational institution. It is crucial to critically consider academic dishonesty, strive for genuine learning, and respect different approaches to education.