Defining Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is defined as the honest and responsible pursuit of scholarship. Academic integrity is characterized by
- completing exams and other academic assignments in an honest way
- presenting truthful and accurate data and research information in academic assignments
- avoiding plagiarism by properly incorporating and acknowledging sources
The reputation of a school and its assessment of student work depend on integrity.
Practice
Which of the following is NOT a vital characteristic of academic integrity?
- doing your own work on assignments
- correctly citing sources in a research paper
- completing all work without assistance or help from a TA
- presenting accurate and truthful data
- following assignment and exam instructions
Show Answer
Why Academic Integrity Matters
- It’s vital to being a responsible part of the academic community.
- Consequences for failing to give credit to sources can be severe. Violating your school’s academic integrity policy may lead to suspension or expulsion.
- As a member of the academic community, it is important to build and uphold a positive reputation. This will carry over to life after college, as you seek recommendations from professors to enter a career field.
