Risk Management of Academic Fraud in Higher Education. An Analysis in Universities of Medellin, Colombia during the COVID-19 Period

Abstract

The risk of academic fraud is a growing focus of concern in educational organizations, particularly with the uncertainty of the pandemic. This article questions how Medellin universities have dealt with the academic fraud risk during the COVID-19 period? The research approach is qualitative and the theoretical perspective is framed in risk management. The information was collected by means of a documentary review and semi-structured interviews; the unit of analysis was the university fraud risk managers. Among the main results, we can highlight the following: the identification of academic fraud risks, the reasons that lead to the occurrence of these events, some related consequences in universities, the treatment measures adopted in each institution and the challenges that arise in their management. The findings provide tools for academics and university advisors, while alerting higher education managers to strengthen integrity from the integral formation.