REASONS FOR THE USAGE OF CONTRACT CHEATERS FOR THESIS PREPARATION BY UNDERGRADUATES OF PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN SRI LANKA: A QUALITATIVE INQUIRY

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