Abstract:
1. Introduction
In Sri Lanka, though undergraduates are inclined to resort to contract
cheating services, there is a noticeable lack of knowledge related to
contract cheating in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the main objective of this study is
to explore the reasons for undergraduates of private universities in Sri
Lanka to get their theses done through contract cheaters. This research is
practically important for universities to initiate strategies to ensure
academic integrity in the research process.
2. Research Methodology
We used interpretivism as the research paradigm in which we employed
qualitative methodology, inductive reasoning, and case study research
design. We utilized purposive sampling method and interviewed eight
graduates of private universities in Sri Lanka. Interviews were transcribed
verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis.
3. Findings and Discussion
We could explore that the poor relationship between students and
supervisors, the workplace pressure caused by the high workload and
tiredness in the workplace, various personal barriers within the students,
and influences of fellow students and the specific research team to which
the student is belong has caused them to resort to contract cheating.
4. Conclusion and Implications
We could explore that contract cheating occurs for reasons related to
supervisor, workplace pressure, personal barriers, peer influence, and
pressure of the research group. University administrators can reduce
contract cheating by fostering supervisor-student relationships,
streamlining research process and properly educating and engaging
students in the research process
