What Is Contract Cheating? A Common Practice in Higher Education

What Is Contract Cheating?

In recent years, contract cheating has become an increasingly common practice in higher education. This phenomenon involves students outsourcing academic work to third-party providers, who complete assignments, essays, and even exams on their behalf. Contract cheating is a growing concern for universities and colleges, as it undermines the integrity of the academic process and undermines the value of a degree. However, there are also arguments that suggest that contract cheating can have some benefits for students. In this article, we will explore what contract cheating is, its prevalence in higher education, and the arguments for and against its use.

What is Contract Cheating?

Contract cheating is a form of academic dishonesty that involves outsourcing academic work to a third party. This work can include assignments, essays, research papers, and even exams. The third-party providers who offer these services are commonly referred to as essay mills, paper mills, or ghostwriting services. These services are usually provided by individuals or companies who operate online, often advertising their services on social media platforms or through email marketing campaigns.

Students who engage in contract cheating pay these providers to complete their academic work for them. This is often done through an online platform, where students can submit their assignments and receive completed work within a specified timeframe. The cost of these services varies depending on the type of work, the level of difficulty, and the deadline. Some providers offer discounts for bulk orders, and some even offer a money-back guarantee if the work does not meet the student’s expectations.

Prevalence of Contract Cheating

Contract cheating has become a widespread practice in higher education. A study conducted by the International Center for Academic Integrity found that 15.7% of students admitted to outsourcing their academic work to a third party. Another study by the UK-based Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education found that the number of students using essay mills has increased by more than 50% in the last decade. This study also found that the majority of essay mill customers were international students and students with poor academic performance.

The prevalence of contract cheating can be attributed to several factors. One of the main reasons is the pressure that students face to succeed academically. This pressure can come from parents, peers, and society as a whole. Students may feel that they need to achieve high grades to secure a good job and a successful future. This pressure can lead some students to resort to contract cheating as a way to achieve their goals.

Another factor that contributes to the prevalence of contract cheating is the accessibility of these services. With the advent of the internet, essay mills and ghostwriting services are just a click away. Students can easily find these providers online and place an order within minutes. The anonymity of the internet also makes it easier for students to engage in contract cheating without fear of being caught.

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Benefits of Contract Cheating

While contract cheating is generally viewed as a negative practice, there are some arguments that suggest that it can have some benefits for students. One argument is that contract cheating can help students who are struggling academically. Students who are struggling with a particular subject or assignment may find it helpful to outsource their work to a third party. This can provide them with a model answer that they can use to improve their own understanding of the subject matter. It can also help them to avoid failing a course, which can have a negative impact on their academic record.

Another argument is that contract cheating can help students who are under a lot of pressure to succeed academically. Students who are juggling multiple responsibilities, such as work, family, and school, may find it difficult to complete all of their academic work on time. Outsourcing their work to a third party can help them to manage their workload and reduce their stress levels. This can lead to better mental health and a better overall academic experience.