1. What behaviors violate academic integrity?
Plagiarism: This involves using someone else's words, ideas, or work without proper citation. It
can range from copying and pasting from sources to paraphrasing someone else's ideas without
credit.
Cheating: This can be using unauthorized materials or devices during an exam, copying from
another student's work, or obtaining an advance copy of an examination. Fabrication: Making
up data, results, sources, or information.
Facilitating Academic Dishonesty: Helping or attempting to help another student commit an
act of academic dishonesty. This might include providing them with answers or doing their work
for them.
Multiple Submissions: Submitting the same or substantially similar work in multiple courses
without the permission of all instructors involved.
Unauthorized Collaboration: Working with others on assignments or projects when instructed
to work independently.
Misrepresentation: Lying to an instructor or school official about academic matters.
2. What happens if you’re accused of academic dishonesty?
Notification: Students are typically notified in writing that they have been accused of a
violation.
Meeting with an Official or Instructor: Students may be asked to meet with an instructor or an
academic official to discuss the allegations.
Formal Hearing: Some schools have a formal hearing process where evidence is presented and
the student has an opportunity to defend themselves.
Potential Consequences: If found guilty, the consequences can range from receiving a zero on
the assignment or test, failing the course, academic probation, suspension, or even expulsion.
The severity of the punishment often depends on the seriousness of the offense and if it's a
repeat violation.
Right to Appeal: Most schools offer a process for students to appeal decisions related to
academic dishonesty.
3. What should you do if you witness an incident of academic dishonesty?
Consult the Syllabus: Some instructors might provide guidance on what to do in such
situations.
Talk to the Person Involved: Depending on your comfort level and the situation, you might
choose to discuss what you witnessed with the person involved.
Report the Incident: You can bring the incident to the attention of the instructor, department
head, or another appropriate school official. Many institutions encourage reporting to maintain
a culture of integrity.
Stay Anonymous: If you're worried about retaliation or backlash, find out if your school offers a
way to report incidents anonymously.