Title: The Issue of Essay Fraud at the University of Lincoln Underscores Larger Educational Problem
Recent research conducted by the BBC has uncovered that essay fraud remains a substantial problem in UK learning institutions, such as the University of Lincoln, in spite of laws implemented to deter these practices. Since April 2022, offering essay writing services for post-16 education students in England has been made illegal, yet there have yet to be any prosecutions.
Alia, a foreign student at the University of Lincoln, recounted her personal experiences of essay cheating. She observed that many of her fellow classmates from abroad struggled with English, resorting to employing essay-writing services, often charging around £20 for 1,000 words. Despite the fact that Alia opted to complete her own assignments, she encountered mockery from colleagues who preferred these services. Around one third of her class was routinely absent from lessons by the second module.
Steve Foster, a previous lecturer with connections to the University of Lincoln, corroborated these accusations, characterising essay cheating as being widely acknowledged yet seldom discussed in academic circles. Foster, who used to teach English language and business courses, suggested that the existence of cheating was a factor that influenced his departure from the sector. He indicated a discrepancy between student’s language abilities and essay quality as often provoking suspicion of foul play.
The University of Lincoln has declared that it acts decisively when students are found guilty of cheating, adhering to codes of conduct that exact harsh sanctions. This problem is part of a wider dilemma UK universities are grappling with, where there is a mounting reliance on fees paid by international students. This dependence, combined with linguistic obstacles, can potentially increase the instances of academic dishonesty amongst this demographic.
As the University of Lincoln continues to draw in a diverse range of students, these revelations illustrate the imperative need for universities to confront root educational and support issues in order to safeguard academic integrity.
This piece was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
