ONLINE GRADUATE STUDENTS’ UNDERSTANDING OF INFORMATION ETHICS ISSUES: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY

Shaun A. Jackson, PhD Candidate in Educational Technology, Walden University, Park City, Utah; Beate Baltes, PhD, Associate Director for Faculty Development, Walden University, USA

This exploratory study employed a qualitative multiple case study design to investigate how online doctoral students understood the construct of information ethics (IE) within the context of academic research. Findings indicated varied levels of understanding of IE issues, and that more exposure to IE concepts is needed, even in doctoral education. While most of the participants in this study applied these concepts adequately in their writing, some needed a significant level of additional training. Study results may be used as a basis for policy and curriculum development to educate and promote awareness, and to decrease the incidence of IE violations.