Students are using calculators, cell phones, computers, and other devices to store and/or download Honesty requires boldness. Genuine and sometimes hard-won knowledge and respect comes from presenting ones own work and acknowledging the work of others. Mutual trust among all members of the VSU community is essential for a positive learning environment. At the end of the day, reflect on how honest you were. All of these definitions of honesty speak to an upright, moral character free of guile and concerned with truthfulness. Create a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable being honest. Be honest and submit your own work in your assessments, 2. Jot down notes if you need to. Situations of right and wrong are rarely simple, and educators can use this reality to cultivate integrity. If Windham High School were to establish an honor code, it would be a failure given that it would not encourage students to abstain from breaking it. People who lie, cheat, lack of trust, steal, greed, and other immoral behaviors do not meet the definition of honesty. College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Harley Langdale, Jr. College of Business Administration, James L. and Dorothy H. Dewar College of Education and Human Services, University Advising & Student Transitions, Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Importance of Academic Honesty in a University Community, The International Center for Academic Integrity, Fundamental Values Project, 2023 Valdosta State University A Comprehensive University of the University System of Georgia. If a child tells a harmful lie, its important to remind them that it is wrong to lie and why it is wrong, but its also important to thank your child for their honesty and willingness to share. Even the most honest of people can sometimes give in to dishonesty. Our children deserve to know the truth. Social awareness skills that help youth practice integrity include perspective-taking, identifying strengths in others, discussing differences within groups and similarities between groups of people, and having empathy toward people who are different from them. Revisit these norms periodically and call attention to them on the days when the class will be engaging in one of those tough-topic conversations. As youth begin to understand their own identities, they can benefit from sharing a collective identity with others with shared identities. If your child is given a gift that he/she does not really like, you might say to your child that it is better to say you like the gift and express thanks rather than reveal your true feelings. A key part of childrens development is teaching them what it means to be trustworthy, which helps them have stronger relationships. Thus, the act of being honest is a courageous one. Let us know what you found most useful or share your suggestions for improving this resource.