National principles and lexicon will strengthen academic integrity

Academic integrity is central to trust in education and Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) and the National Academic Integrity Network (NAIN) are pleased to announce the publication of Academic Integrity: National Principles and Lexicon of Common Terms. This updated document builds on the earlier version of Academic Integrity: National Principles and Lexicon of Common Terms, which was first published by QQI and NAIN in 2021. This resource supports those working in Irish higher and further education and training in promoting a shared understanding of academic integrity and consistent language across the sector. 

The document sets out principles for learners and providers, including: 

• honesty, trust, fairness, respect and responsibility in all academic work
• clear communication of expectations and sanctions for misconduct
• support for appropriate use of emerging technologies, including AI 

Among the terms featured are “plagiarism”, now expanded to include AI-empowered plagiarism, and “prompt engineering” - the skill of crafting effective instructions for AI tools. These additions reflect the evolving landscape of learning and assessment. 

Shared principles and terminology will help providers embed integrity in teaching, learning and assessment. 

The National Academic Integrity Network (NAIN), coordinated by QQI, brings together staff, learner representatives and agencies from across the tertiary education sector to promote a shared understanding and culture of academic integrity. Established in 2019, NAIN supports providers through enhancement activities, good practice sharing and working groups guided by a steering committee. 

Read Academic Integrity: National Principles and Lexicon of Common Terms now.