4 ways to avoid cheating, plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty
Sometimes when things get hectic, we can make mistakes. These mistakes could be a true accident or an intentional choice to cut corners. Whatever our intentions, actions that violate the Honor Code have consequences.
Learning to manage our time and asking for help can play a big role in achieving academic success. Here are four things to do at the beginning of the semester to avoid potential Honor Code violations later on.
Review your syllabus
At the beginning of the semester, read the syllabus for each of your classes. Faculty include important information in each syllabus, including expectations for their course that you are required to follow. This information will likely be different for each class.
Being aware of these expectations can help you avoid unintentionally violating the Honor Code. For example, some faculty prohibit students from collaborating on coursework with classmates. And with remote courses, be aware of when you can and cannot use outside resources. If you have any questions about the expectations stated in the syllabus, ask your instructor for clarification.
Start coursework early
Some Honor Code violations occur when students are rushing to complete work. Whether it’s studying for an exam or working on a long-term project or paper, starting as early as possible can help you avoid procrastination and Honor Code violations. Additionally, starting early allows you enough time to ask questions and find help in office hours or other campus resources.
Use a calendar or planner and add important dates from your syllabi. This includes exam dates, project or paper deadlines, presentations, etc. Regularly look ahead at your next few weeks to see what is coming up and which things should take priority.
Complete work on your own
Academic dishonesty is any act in which a student gains or attempts to gain an unfair academic advantage over other students. This also includes helping another student gain an unfair academic advantage.
With every test, paper, project, lab and assignment, be sure that you are completing your own work, unless the written directions specifically allow you to work with others.
- You can talk through your work with another student or a study group, but do not share your work. Once you send it to another person, you don’t have control over how it’s shared or used.
- Do not search for answers on the internet, unless expressly permitted. With hybrid and online learning, be careful with using only authorized resources for help.
- Exams, including online and take-home exams, are independent work unless your instructor clearly states otherwise in the syllabus or exam instructions.
Use your resources
Whether you’re looking for help with citing sources or are struggling with a concept discussed in class, ask for help. Connect with your instructor during the office hours listed on their syllabus, or use campus resources: