the accidental plagiarist

The Accidental Plagiarist

Notes from the Prevent Plagiarism Workshop

Be Specific When Defining Plagiarism

Make Expectations Regarding Plagiarism Assignment-Specific

• “You are not allowed to use essays written for a previous class.”

• “You are allowed editing assistance only from the writing center, and please acknowledge that assistance at the end of the essay.”

Create a Culture of Integrity

Be a Role Model

• Model correct citation for each assignment

• Cite YOUR sources on classroom materials

• Be careful with your terminology (say “notes” rather than “cheat sheet,” etc.)

• View inadvertent plagiarism as a “teaching moment”

Discuss Academic Integrity

Require an Academic Integrity Statement

“I affirm that I have neither given nor received unauthorized aid with this assignment”—The Student

Ask Students to Acknowledge Assistance

“I thank the following people for their feedback and assistance on this project:____________________.”

Design Assignments Not Easily Plagiarized

• Avoid easily googled topics

• Require that rough drafts be written in class

• Do not allow last minute changes in topics

• Give students class time to research in the library (can book the library classroom for up to two sessions per class)

Respond to Suspected Plagiarism with Due Process

Due Process

• Discuss the alleged misconduct with the student within 10 days

• Within the next 10 days, give the student written notification of any academic sanctions and the student’s right to appeal to the Academic Integrity Committee

Document Plagiarism Carefully• Keep copies of the plagiarized paper

• Print out source material, if possible

• Keep copies of notifications to students, chair, and registrar’s office

• Make note of dates and times of meetings with students as well as the content of the meetings and suggested solutions such as a rewrites

Don’t Obsess Over Plagiarism

Questions?/Open Discussion