What is Academic Integrity?
Academic integrity is the ethical foundation of scholarship. It involves honesty, responsibility, fairness, and respect in all academic endeavors.
Key Principles
Honesty
Present your work truthfully without falsification or deception. Be transparent about your sources and methods.
Trust
Act in ways that build trust between students and educators. This includes following rules and expectations.
Fairness
Follow rules and regulations that ensure fair competition. Don't gain unfair advantages over your peers.
Respect
Value the work of others and acknowledge their contributions. Respect intellectual property.
Responsibility
Take ownership of your learning and work. Stand by your academic decisions.
Avoiding Plagiarism
Plagiarism occurs when you use someone else's work without proper attribution. Always cite your sources using the appropriate format.
Types of Plagiarism
- Direct copying without citation
- Paraphrasing without attribution
- Self-plagiarism
- Accidental plagiarism
Best Practices
- Take careful notes and track all sources
- Start assignments early to avoid last-minute temptation
- Ask for help if you're unsure about citation rules
- Use plagiarism detection tools before submission
- Understand your institution's policies
Why It Matters
Academic integrity builds character, maintains the value of your degree, and prepares you for professional ethical standards. It's fundamental to your reputation and future success.
