BBUS1003: Reflective Essay on Academic and Professional Integrity

This reflective essay delves into the concept of integrity and moral ethics within various settings, particularly focusing on business communication. The essay begins with a definition of academic and professional integrity, emphasizing consistent ethical behavior and adherence to values. It highlights the significance of integrity in building trust, fostering strong professional relationships, and promoting organizational growth. The author compares their previous understanding of integrity with their current perspective, acknowledging the importance of producing authentic work and giving due credit to sources. The essay concludes by emphasizing the value of ethical behavior in academic and professional contexts and the importance of acting consciously and respectfully in all situations. The assignment is a reflective essay for the BBUS1003 Business Communication course, assessing the student's understanding of academic and professional integrity.

Running head: BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
Essay on integrity and moral ethics in various settings
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author Note

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ESSAY ON INTEGRITY AND MORAL ETHICS IN VARIOUS SETTING
Introduction
The word integrity implies, having strong moral ethics and adhering to the right
values irrespective of the consequences. Every institution has a set of values that they
practice and expect their students or employees to practice as well. This reflective essay aims
to explore my understanding of this concept.
Definition
Academic and professional integrity is defined as consistent and willing practice of
ethical behavior in accordance to values and morals of the academic institution or profession
(Thomas and Scott 2016). We are faced by situations, which challenges our morals every
day, however adhering to the right values determines the kind of person we are. The term
academic integrity was coined by Don McCabe. He is credited with creating moral policy in
academic setting such as avoidance of plagiarism, producing honest and rigorous academic
research work. Integrity in profession and academics is extremely necessary to avoid amoral
practices and uplift the values of an organization (Bretag 2019).
Significance
It is important to practice and promote ethical values in academic and professional
life. Practicing integrity helps to build a good image that shows that a person has good
principles and value in life. In business, sector too trustworthy character is deemed important
in establishing good and strong professional relationship with clients (Drakulevski and Nakov
2016). It is observed that organizations trust to work with individuals who have strong ethics
as these individuals reflect the company values directly and affect the growth of the
organization. Integrity is significant in leadership roles, people respect and look up to people
who show strong integrity to their work and are honest in their beliefs (Sumi and Mesner-

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ESSAY ON INTEGRITY AND MORAL ETHICS IN VARIOUS SETTING
Andolšek 2016). Academically and professionally, people who produce original and non-
plagiarized work earn respect and recognition for their work. In the end it also better for the
mental peace and well-being.
Application
Professional and academic integrity is crucial in the proper functioning of an
institution or an organization. The reputation of any organization or institution lies in its
credibility and the proper implementation of their code of ethics in everyday practice.
Application of professional and academic is a regulative practice that needs to be practiced
without the fear of being watched or forced to do it. For instance, in an industry setting,
nurses should conduct themselves adhering to code of conduct naturally and willingly
without the fear of punishment. Students must apply academic integrity in producing
authentic and credibility. Students may plagiarize or cheat in order to gain more marks.
However, using intellectual property without giving the due mention is unethical practice.
People in general both academically and professionals must conduct themselves in adherence
to general code of conduct to improve the quality of service
Comparison
In comparison to my previous understanding and current understanding of the
concept, there is many differences. Firstly, my previous notions about plagiarising content in
my academic work was never a major concern as I felt people did that all the time. However,
I have realised that there is more credibility in producing authentic work and it is important to
give credit to those who inspire my work. Research works are extensive, they need to be
accurate and precise, and any unethical malpractices can alter the researcher’s credibility and
harm their image. Therefore, I do believe to understand the implications these practices bear
and produce authentic and proper work. Lastly, the importance of good behaviour I any
sector is invaluable, previously I did not understand the need to adhere to the decorum of any

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ESSAY ON INTEGRITY AND MORAL ETHICS IN VARIOUS SETTING
place, brashness and tardiness is not the way to present oneself. It can imply that I am not
respectful towards the people or place, which was never my intention. Hence, I am very
conscious about the implications my behavioural aspect can have on others and the overall
service. Therefore, I choose to, consciously always act in accordance to the environment not
only for the implications it may bear but also for my own concern.
In conclusion, my understanding of ethical values and concepts have improved. I
have realised the hard work and effort that goes into producing authentic work and it is
rewarding. I have realised to consciously choose to pay attention and act accordingly.

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ESSAY ON INTEGRITY AND MORAL ETHICS IN VARIOUS SETTING
Reference
Thomas, J. and Scott, J., 2016. UK perspectives of academic integrity. Handbook of
academic integrity, pp.39-53.
Bretag, T., 2019. Academic Integrity: A Global Community of Scholars.
Sumi, R. and Mesner-Andolšek, D., 2016. The Integrity of the Servant Leader. Routledge.
Drakulevski, L. and Nakov, L., 2016. Strategic approaches to creating and developing the
concept of business integrity. Strategic Management, 21(2), pp.23-31.