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Peer effects and honor probation: Evidence from USAFA

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  • Albert, Aaron

Abstract

Academic cheating is a troubling phenomenon in higher education because it undermines the value of grades and degree completion as a signal of academic ability and skills accumulated. This study uses administrative data from the United States Air Force Academy to estimate the causal effect of honor probation of one’s peers. Using conditionally random squadron assignment, I find that students in a squadron with more peers that have experienced honor probation are less likely to end up on honor probation themselves. This decrease in honor probation is highest for students with low college preparation. These results suggest that increased awareness and salience of punishment for honor probation may discourage academic cheating in higher education.

Suggested Citation

  • Albert, Aaron, 2024. "Peer effects and honor probation: Evidence from USAFA," Economics of Education Review, Elsevier, vol. 103(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecoedu:v:103:y:2024:i:c:s0272775724000955
    DOI: 10.1016/j.econedurev.2024.102601
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    College; Peer effects; Academic cheating; Student outcomes; Higher education; Honor;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education
    • I23 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Higher Education; Research Institutions

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