Module 5: Use and Cite Information Correctly, Learn about Plagiarism (1 pages 1) what's this?
| Learn about Plagiarism | Decide when to Quote | Learn to Paraphrase | Learn to Summarize | Find Additional Resources | Use APA or MLA Style |
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Plagiarism is the use of information (words, sentences, and/or ideas and even the structure of sentences and/or ideas) from another source that is not properly credited. Plagiarism may be unintentional and may occur even if a source is credited but is done so improperly. All plagiarism, even if unintentional, can result in serious consequences. |
The UHV Student Handbook (2001-2002)
indicates, “students who are trying conscientiously to learn and to
demonstrate what they know need not worry about academic dishonesty and
should feel free to use any assistance available in advancing their
knowledge. Education and
scholarly research depend, after all, upon shared assistance.
On the other hand, no one should claim credit for the work of
others, misrepresent or misappropriate the work of others, or try to gain
unfair advantage over others” (p. 17).
Essentially, plagiarism is a form of academic dishonesty with
disciplinary actions ranging from a reduced grade for the assignment or
course to expulsion.
The UHV Student Handbook further
indicates, “students also have a responsibility to fulfill, and indeed an
investment to protect, in helping to ensure that academic achievement is
characterized by honesty and fair play” (p. 17).
Remember, ultimately it is your responsibility to be conscientious
about avoiding plagiarism.
All this information may sound pretty scary. Plagiarism is a serious issue with serious repercussions. Fortunately, plagiarism is easy to avoid if you cite information correctly. So, what exactly needs to be cited?
Robert Harris (2002), in Using Sources Effectively, provides a list of what you would need to cite. He indicates,
you must cite someone else’s words you quote, words you summarize, words you paraphrase, idea (interpretation, opinion, conclusion), data, graph, photograph, drawing, table of information, experiment, example, unique concept, apt phrase, expression of common knowledge, solution to a problem, speech, video source (film, TV program), [and] the structure or sequencing of facts, ideas. or arguments. (p. 18)
Harris’ list, though not extensive, shows that
plagiarism may involve not only the ‘borrowing’ of words or sentences
but also tables and graphics.
Harris' list also indicates that you must cite "words you quote, words you summarize, and words you paraphrase." Next, you'll learn about when you should quote, paraphrase, and summarize.
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Copyright 2003 by the Academic Center, the University of Houston-Victoria, and
Summer Leibensperger.
Created 2003 by Summer Leibensperger.
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