Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to validate a comprehensive and psychometrically sound instrument-the Propensity to Cheat Scale (PCS)-designed to measure undergraduate students' propensity toward academic dishonesty in Ethiopian universities. Based on Ajzen's Theory of Planned Behavior, the PCS was validated to assess students' attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control related to various forms of cheating, including cheating on tests and examinations, cheating on assignments, cheating on research work (plagiarism), and theft and mutilation of library materials. METHODS: The present study employed an explanatory research design using a questionnaire based on the Propensity to Cheat Scale (PCS). The questionnaire was administered to 500 university students (male = 367 [73.4%]; female = 133 [26.6%]) selected from three Ethiopian public universities between November and January 2022. In order to measure the underlying variables of propensity towards cheating, a factor model is developed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and confirmatory factor analysis was employed to validate the students' perceived PTC. The internal consistency of the PTC scale was assessed using reliability analysis, and validity evaluations were conducted to confirm the scale's discriminant and convergent validity. RESULTS: Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) results revealed a good fit to the data, and the internal consistency of the PCS was found to be strong, providing a reliable measure of students' propensity for cheating. Validity evaluations, including discriminant validity and convergent validity, confirmed the validity of the scale. The average variance extracted (AVE) and composite reliability values also supported the scale's convergent validity. The multidimensional concept of the PTC was supported by a four-factor solution consisting of 26 reliable and valid items. CONCLUSION: The findings of the study demonstrate that the scale has also provided sufficient evidence of convergent and discriminant validity. By establishing discriminant and convergent validity, as well as reliability, through different validation procedures, the study has provided strong evidence for the effectiveness of the PCS as an instrument for determining whether university students are likely to engage in cheating behavior.