Written Assignment #1
Submit to assignment Drop box by 11:59 pm Saturday, 1/26
In a 2-page paper, address the importance of academic honesty as it relates to student writing. Discuss the reasons why students plagiarize,
the potential consequences of plagiarism, and how it can be avoided.
(Note: this assignment should not include scholarly/manuscript writing for publication or research).
Requires a minimum of 2 references: one from an English titled, peer-reviewed NURSING journal (less than 5 years-old) and
one from the APA Manual:
ISBN: 9781433805615
American Psychological Association. (2009). American Psychological Association Manual (6thed.). Washington: Author.
Use three level-one headings.
Professional, governmental, or educational organizations (.org, .gov, or .edu) may be used as supplemental references.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Academic honesty is a vital component of student writing in higher education. It encompasses the principles of integrity, trustworthiness, and ethical behavior in the academic realm. Plagiarism, the act of using someone else’s work or ideas without proper attribution, is a significant concern that undermines academic honesty. This paper will discuss the reasons why students plagiarize, the potential consequences of plagiarism, and how it can be avoided.
Reasons why students plagiarize:
There are several reasons why students engage in plagiarism. Firstly, the pressure to excel academically and meet high expectations can lead students to take shortcuts in their writing. They may believe that by plagiarizing, they can achieve better grades without investing sufficient time and effort in their work. Additionally, lack of time management skills or procrastination can push students to plagiarize when faced with impending deadlines. A lack of understanding of citation and referencing techniques, particularly for students who are not native English speakers or are unfamiliar with academic writing conventions, can also contribute to unintentional plagiarism.
Potential consequences of plagiarism:
Plagiarism can have severe consequences for students. Academically, it undermines the learning process by preventing students from developing critical thinking, research, and writing skills. When students plagiarize, they miss out on the opportunity to engage with and contribute to the scholarly discourse in their field. Moreover, it erodes the credibility and integrity of the academic institution and devalues the qualifications of those who have obtained their degrees dishonestly.
From a disciplinary perspective, students who are found guilty of plagiarism may face a range of penalties, including receiving a failing grade for the assignment or course, academic probation, suspension, or even expulsion from the institution. These consequences can have long-lasting effects on a student’s academic and professional reputation. Plagiarism can also tarnish a student’s future employment prospects if potential employers become aware of their dishonest academic behavior.
Avoiding plagiarism:
To avoid plagiarism, students should adhere to proper academic writing practices. They should develop effective time management skills to avoid last-minute rushing and the temptation to plagiarize. Understanding the importance of citing and referencing sources accurately is crucial. Students should familiarize themselves with the guidelines provided by the American Psychological Association (APA) and consult the APA Manual (6th ed.) for specific instructions on citation and referencing.
Furthermore, students can seek support and guidance from university writing centers, attend workshops on citation and referencing, or take online tutorials to enhance their understanding. Developing their own style of writing and voice can also help students express their ideas authentically and reduce the likelihood of inadvertently plagiarizing. Finally, using plagiarism detection software can serve as a useful tool for students to check their work for any potential instances of plagiarism before submission.
Conclusion:
Academic honesty is essential for maintaining the integrity of the education system and fostering a culture of ethical conduct among students. The reasons behind student plagiarism are varied, but the consequences can be detrimental to both the individual and the academic institution. By understanding these reasons and taking proactive steps to avoid plagiarism, students can uphold academic honesty and develop the skills necessary for successful academic and professional careers.
