In this unit, you will learn what plagiarism is and why it's important for you to avoid doing it in your coursework and academic studies. Read the material and watch the videos - and don't forget to take notes for the quiz.
According to the Longman Dictionary of American English, plagiarism is, "The act of using someone else's words, idea, or work and pretending they are your own....“
(Longman. (2014). Plagiarism. In Longman Dictionary of American English. (2nd ed,. p. 836).
This concept is based on the belief that an individual or organization owns the work they create, regardless of whether the work is a photograph, a phrase, a book, a song, a film, or even an idea.
Source: Pixabay.com
Watch this video on how plagiarism occurs and how to avoid it.
Community College of Vermont and Vermont Technical College, Source: YouTube
Plagiarism is taken very seriously in academic study because it is considered stealing others' work and cheating about the work you are supposed to do for your classes. It is considered a violation of Academic Integrity.
So what is Academic Integrity?
Academic Integrity means being honest about how and what you learn. It also means doing your own assignments, using your own ideas, and only using others' work and ideas if you list them as your sources (citations).
Watch the video below from Bainbridge State College to learn more about Academic Integrity.
Columbia College (Vancouver) Library, Source: YouTube
Academic Integrity at Edmonds College
As a student at Edmonds, you are part of an academic community and integrity in your learning is an essential part of how you share our learning and knowledge with others.
Edmonds College has a Student Code of Conduct Policy: Academic misconduct and dishonesty - section 3.(a)(ii)
Finally...
The fear of plagiarism can be paralyzing when it comes to doing your assignments. Don't let it stop you. The best way to avoid plagiarism is to create citations for your sources whenever you quote, paraphrase, and/or summarize information from someone else’s work. If you need help with your citations, be sure to ask a librarian.
Next, go to Unit 10 to learn about Using Citations.