The English Oxford Dictionary defines plagiarism as the use of someone else’s intellectual property without references. However, the concept of plagiarism goes far beyond this narrow definition. The purpose of this document is to summarize Thomas (2020) presentation related to the wide issue of plagiarism.
According to Thomas (2020) plagiarism can be divide into deliberate fraudulent or unintentional. Some scholars consciously and determinedly commit the act of plagiarism. Such unfair practices deserve severe condemnation. However, students can plagiarise unintentionally. According to Thomas (2020) lack of academic skills may lead to unintentional abuse of academic rules. Furthermore, Thomas (2020) pointed out that deficiencies in writers’ workshops can lead to committing unintentional violations. In addition, Thomas (2020) lists areas in the writing process where scholars should put precautions in order to avoid plagiarism. The most serious consequence for a student may be expulsion from the university. Whether the plagiarism was a deliberate act or not, the author of the plagiarism may be held responsible.
Insufficient paraphrasing skills are one of the main determinants that may result in a research article being qualified as plagiarism. Thomas (2020), explains a number of other practices such as improper citation. A common factor seems to be the lack of adequate skills in creating content. Psychological stress also plays a significant role. Students who procrastinate with material preparation may not have enough time to finish an article, therefore may be prone to the temptation of plagiarizing.
Educational institutions are equipped with software that compares the content in terms of their similarity. However, the decisive vote in assessing whether a student has committed an offense rests with the teacher. The professor based on the previous work of the student can deduce whether the student’s work is a material created by him. Some of the students may not be aware of procedures related to the proper citation of source content. Committing plagiarism may result from an inappropriate technique of note-taking. The reasons why students commit an act of plagiarism vary from the lack of awareness and understanding concept of plagiarism.
In conclusion. Awareness of the serious implications of the misappropriation of someone else’s intellectual property is essential to an academic career. Whether the action is deliberate or the result of the student’s lack of skill, the consequences of plagiarism can be prominent. Plagiarism may be easily avoided if all credits are granted to authors appropriately. Time management techniques and proper executing action plan on each step of the creative process are essential. Correct note-taking techniques may be a remedy for plagiarism. An updated database of all sources, proper citation of every single idea is beneficial to the majority of academic stakeholders.
References:
Thomas, S. Understanding Plagiarism. De Montfort University, 2020.
ASSIGNMENT CHECKLIST
Please attach a copy of this checklist to your assignment
Module: STUDY SKILLS 3: COMMUNICATION SKILLS (TERM 3)
Module code: LIPCF133_2021_503
Assignment: LECTURE SUMMARY 1; Write a summary based on the lecture notes that you took during the guest lecture – Understanding Plagiarism and How It Can Be Avoided.
Task Requirements
I have completed this cover sheet and checklist and attached it to my essay.
I have checked the brief carefully to ensure I have followed all the instructions.
I have followed the correct formatting guidelines (see brief).
I have NOT used any language generating software, such as Grammarly.
I have written between 450 and 550 words.
Content
My introduction identifies the aims of the lecture and the main points covered.
The main body summarises the content of the lecture.
I have not included any minor details from the lecture, or any information that was not part of the lecture.
Referencing and Paraphrasing
I have referenced all sources, including the lecture itself, both in-text and in a reference list.
I have checked that my referencing style matches the Cite Them Right Harvard referencing guide (available on Blackboard, in the Academic Referencing folder).
I have not copied language directly from the lecturer’s Power point slides; I have paraphrased.
Writing Style
I have checked my work for any errors with academic style.
I have checked my work for grammar and vocabulary errors.
