Abstract

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was evident across multiple domains, including higher education institutions. This study aimed to assess the overall academic experience of university students in Puerto Rico during courses delivered virtually in response to the health emergency, and to describe their ethical conduct and academic integrity throughout that period. A descriptive quantitative design was employed, utilizing a questionnaire completed by 67 students. Findings revealed that most participants disagreed with preferring virtual over face-to-face instruction; furthermore, the majority reported having acted honestly, with integrity, and ethically during the pandemic. Higher education institutions are accountable to faculty, students, and staff for upholding standards of ethics and academic integrity.

Keywords:
ethical conduct; higher education; online learning; pandemics; university