When the pandemic first started in 2020, teachers and college professors nationwide expressed concern. Remote learning, imposed rather than eased into, was a new route that educational institutions, both private and public, took to decrease the impact on students. However, with those adjustments came fears of cheating.

As it turns out, the pandemic didn’t affect students’ academic integrity as initially thought. According to a recent survey by Wiley, only 27% of college professors now believe that students are more likely to cheat in an online course. And students everywhere are breathing a sigh of relief due to the extreme measures some colleges took to prevent cheating.

Although this is good news for students and professors alike, the positive change doesn't reflect how colleges and universities handled students before. Reports of intrusive technology causing some students to fear using the restroom sparked criticism of the practices in 2021. The invasive programs, previously gaining popularity, are becoming less of a necessity as more students attend in-class sessions.

Cheating Allegations and Their Impact

Allegations of cheating, whether in-person or remotely, plagued students already caught up in the uncertainty of the pandemic. In addition to the new adjustments, they also worried about their grades and academic progress. Students who did not cheat faced allegations for the most mundane actions, like looking the other way. These ridiculous measures certainly impacted students, with many fighting back against the unjust principles.

For students accused of misconduct, cheating, or similar infractions, the findings of the Wiley study are an example of how administrators and technology can get it wrong. Being on the receiving end of a misconduct allegation has severe consequences on a student's future.

Administrators impose harsh sanctions on students that vary from verbal reprimand to expulsion. Not only does a student lose years of time and effort, but they also suffer from reputation damage that can stay on their transcript. Moreover, they potentially lose scholarships and the funds they paid to continue their education.

Law and medical students, for example, can potentially lose placement and face discrimination when applying to another school or when seeking professional licensing. These scenarios can quickly become a reality for students wrongly accused of misconduct.

Taking Action Against Allegations

Don't be a victim of an overzealous attempt to increase academic integrity due to adjustments made for the pandemic. If this is happening to you, you need the help of a skilled attorney-advisor for a favorable outcome.

Attorney-advisor Joseph D. Lento and his team have unparalleled experience across the United Stated working on academic misconduct cases and specializing in student defense at the school disciplinary process level and in court as needed.

You worked hard on your degree, and allegations from your college administration, no matter how severe, must result in a fair process. You may face graduation delays due to cheating and misconduct allegations despite your time, money, and effort.

If you or someone you love faces academic misconduct or cheating accusations, don't wait. Call the Lento Law Firm today for a thorough consultation at 888-535-3686.