Academic Integrity at Winthrop University

"A fundamental tenet of all institutions of higher learning is academic honesty. Academic work must depend upon respect for and acknowledgement of the research and ideas of others. Misrepresentation of someone else's work as one's own is a most serious offense in any academic setting. Academic misconduct in any form cannot be condoned." Student Conduct Code, Pg 38 of the Student Handbook.

Teaching Academic Integrity and Preventing Academic Misconduct

Make time to discuss academic integrity in class, with individual students, and between students.

Define academic integrity for students and make your expectations for assignments clear. Don't assume students have been exposed to these expectations in high school or other college classes.

Include information and expectations on academic integrity on syllabi.

Strive for clarity when defining expectations and avoid the use of words like "plagiarism" and "cheating" unless followed by a clear explanation and examples. Faculty should consider specific expectations for group work and use of electronic medium.

Connect course work with discussions on professional ethics/standards and academic integrity. Structure assignments to discourage academic misconduct by requiring drafts along with final papers, or scheduling reviews of topics early in the timeline.

Utilize Turn-it-in and other electronic resources when appropriate.

Stay fresh. Change tests, projects and papers regularly. During examinations, utilize multiple versions and manage the testing environment appropriately. Train GAs or test monitors before proctoring.

Strike quickly. Confront students early and correct behavior when first noticed. Consult with the Dean of Students Office when implementing academic consequences for academic misconduct.

Resources

The Dean of Students Office is room 246 of the DiGiorgio Campus Center. Faculty and students may call (803)/323-4503 with questions about academic integrity, faculty training, and the academic misconduct process at Winthrop.

The Center for Academic Integrity has a multitude of articles, research, tips and helpful links for academic integrity.

View the Winthrop Copyright Policy.

View information on Research Guides and Citation Assistance.

View information on Turn-it-in. Contact the Dean of Library Services for a tutorial.

The Writing Center, located in 220 Bancroft, assists students with their writing. Tutors work one on one (or in small groups when requested) with students in all phases of the writing process and on academic or personal writing projects in any discipline. Call (803)/323-2138 for information regarding hours and services or visit the Center's web site.

View the Student Handbook online.