Academic Integrity

Student Conduct and Ethical Development promotes academic integrity through enforcing the Academic Integrity Policy [pdf] (University Policy F15-7).

Pursuant to the Academic Integrity Policy, all allegations of cheating and plagiarism should be referred to Student Conduct and Ethical Development by completing our .

Do You Suspect Academic Dishonesty?

  1. Confront the situation discretely and arrange to meet with the student.
    • Contact and inform the student that you have evidence indicating an act of academic dishonesty (cheating or plagiarism) may have occurred.
    • You may want to consult with the department chair to discuss the range of possible academic sanctions; you may also consider inviting another faculty or department chair to the meeting with the student.

  2. Meet with the student to discuss the alleged cheating or plagiarism.
    • Allow the student to review the evidence and provide an explanation.
    • Take notes of the meeting. Did the student admit to the dishonest behavior?
    • Use a preponderance of evidence standard to determine whether or not cheating or plagiarism occurred.
    • Communicate your finding and the academic sanctions assigned (in accordance with 4.0 of the Academic Integrity Policy) to the student.
    • Document the conversation and inform the student that you are required to refer this case to Student Conduct and Ethical Development.
    • If a face to face meeting is not possible, contact the student via phone and/or e-mail to hear the student’s perspective on the case.
    • If more than one student is involved in the case, we recommend that you meet with each student separately.

  3. Complete the . Attach the following information in the Supporting Documents section:
    • Course syllabus
    • Copy or original of assignment
    • Highlight the areas of alleged academic dishonesty on the student’s assignment and source of dishonesty (e.g., turnitin.com report).
    • If multiple sections of alleged dishonesty exist, match the assignment and source of dishonesty with corresponding numbers
    • Any additional documentation such as website printouts, test copies, etc.

Questions

If you have any questions regarding academic integrity, contact Student Conduct and Ethical Development by phone 408-924-5985, or send email to studentconduct@sjsu.edu.