The practice of examination by essays written by candidates in their own time depends on the honesty of candidates. Plagiarism threatens to undermine this common and often most appropriate way of assessment. Thus, both the university and the department view plagiarism with the utmost seriousness. At no stage in your studies will plagiarism be tolerated. The Detection of Plagiarism is easy. All examiners are experienced in detecting plagiarism. There are also efficient electronic and internet-based tools for checking whether any part of an essay comes from the public domain.
Plagiarism is the presentation of another person’s words or ideas as your own, usually through failing to properly acknowledge the source of these ideas. All students must complete and pass the Academic Integrity Course before submitting their first piece of assessed work counting for more than 1% of a module.
In cases of confirmed plagiarism from the public domain the principle of ‘absolute liability’ applies: “The candidate shall be considered liable for the use of plagiarised material whether or not he or she has behaved (or intended to behave) dishonestly or unethically.” If at any point you are in doubt about whether your acknowledgments are sufficient, you are advised to consult your supervisor or the course tutor. Further details can be found in section 1.4 of the booklet Academic Misconduct: Policies, Guidelines and Procedures.
Candidates must not do any of the following:
All cases of academic misconduct are viewed as very serious offences which may result in the exclusion from the university.
Where academic misconduct is suspected, the examiner(s) concerned will bring the matter to the immediate attention of the Philosophy Chair of the Board of Examiners. The Chair, or their nominee, will determine whether there is a case of academic misconduct to be answered and the appropriate course of action. The Chair will consult, if necessary, with the Assistant Registrar for Student Progress (who may liaise with the SCA). If the Chair, or their nominee, determines that there is a case of academic misconduct to be answered, Academic Misconduct Procedures will be initiated.