Abstract
We use a controlled laboratory experiment design to test rational choice theory on student whistleblowing. We examine reporting
costs by comparing actual reporting behavior under anonymous and non-anonymous reporting channels. Reporting benefits are
explored by considering the influence on reporting of group versus individual reward systems. We find that the type of reporting
channel does not significantly influence student reporting behavior. Rewarding students based on group test scores results
in significantly higher reporting rates compared to a system rewarding students based on individual test scores. Our laboratory
research design allows for the measurement of actual reporting. The high reporting rates in this study emphasize the importance
of clearly stating what is considered to be unethical behavior and directly asking students about their ethical environment.
costs by comparing actual reporting behavior under anonymous and non-anonymous reporting channels. Reporting benefits are
explored by considering the influence on reporting of group versus individual reward systems. We find that the type of reporting
channel does not significantly influence student reporting behavior. Rewarding students based on group test scores results
in significantly higher reporting rates compared to a system rewarding students based on individual test scores. Our laboratory
research design allows for the measurement of actual reporting. The high reporting rates in this study emphasize the importance
of clearly stating what is considered to be unethical behavior and directly asking students about their ethical environment.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-14
- DOI 10.1007/s10805-012-9154-7
- Authors
- Iris Jenkel, St. Norbert College, De Pere, WI, USA
- Jason J. Haen, St. Norbert College, De Pere, WI, USA
- Journal Journal of Academic Ethics
- Online ISSN 1572-8544
- Print ISSN 1570-1727