contract cheating

Illustration by Jane Jun is licensed under CC BY 4.0

Unlike an act of individual cheating where someone copies material without citing or looks at another student’s paper in an exam, contract cheating involves two parties: the person who purchases their work and the person/organization who provides the work. When human beings do something they know is inappropriate, they typically rationalize the behavior.

Rationalization is the process of choosing to interpret and explain wrong action in a way that makes it seem less offensive. Contract cheating companies know this and will attempt to normalize unethical behavior and treat cheating as any other commodity that can be bought and paid for.

For example, websites that promote the contracting out of academic work will position themselves as businesses that “help” students and care about their future.

Ask yourself, what is the long term implication is for someone who cheats? Would you be able to compete for a job if you didn’t learn the material along the way? Would you want your doctor to be someone who knows what she is doing or someone who unethically passed a test?

The reality is that contract cheating companies are hugely invested in encouraging students to turn a blind eye to the immediate and future negative consequences of cheating. Don’t be fooled by promises that an essay is “100% plagiarism free”, that you will “be guaranteed a B+”, or that “everyone is doing it."

Students who get duped by contract cheating services run a risk of severe academic penalties in the short-term. They also deprive themselves of receiving honest feedback from their instructors on their aptitude and interests that can guide them toward a successful career. Furthermore, students run the risk of being beholden to contract cheating companies that have their personal information and can damage their personal and professional reputation.

We all need help and encouragement when we learn. Turn to the right people for help. In addition to your instructor, you can connect with the Student Learning Hub for learning support.