Question: From time to time in national news there are stories about plagiarism or other forms of academic misconduct in higher education. What should I do if I suspect a student of plagiarism?
CITL’s Answer: Plagiarism is a serious offense. It is damaging to students and potentially unpleasant and risky for faculty, as well. The Academic Policy Committee issued, and the Faculty Assembly approved, a detailed plagiarism and academic dishonesty policy. When you suspect plagiarism, consult the policy to be fully informed about your role, the student’s rights, and Emerson’s process in response to suspicions of plagiarism.
Then, if you are still suspicious, the next step is to speak with the student to gather more information. If you wish to go forward with a complaint, you complete an Academic Misconduct Complainant Reporting Form and submit it to the Office of the Dean of Students. Do not hesitate to consult your Department Chair or the CITL if you wish to discuss a case before submitting a complaint.
