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Academics

The Code of Academic Integrity at Seaver College is an integral part of the educational process, emphasizing the dignity and development of each individual.  As a Christian institution, Pepperdine University affirms that integrity begins in our very created being and is lived out in our academic work. The code maintains free competition and independent intellectual effort, not tolerating dishonesty, cheating, or plagiarism in any form.  Unfortunately, students do, on occasion, violate Academic Integrity, and this provides a need for discipline and an opportunity for restoration. We invite our students, staff, and faculty to play role in preventing and responding to academic misconduct.

Defining Academic Misconduct

Academic misconduct can include:

  • Plagiarism (intentional or unintentional)
  • Cheat sheets/Other forms of cheating
  • Having someone take a test for you
  • Copying a test
  • Lying about circumstances
  • Having someone sign in for you

 

Consequences of Academic Misconduct

Many times sanctions are determined by the level of premeditation of the infraction.

Sanctions can include:

  • Failing the class
  • Loss of credit in course
  • Written warning 
  • Temporary transcript notation
  • Permanent transcript notation
  • Removed from major
  • Expulsion
  • Rescinding a degree

 

Ways to Step Up! against Academic Misconduct

Direct

  • Talk to the person about why the behavior is happening.
  • Know appropriate resources/support
  • Remind them of consequences
  • Discuss Value Based Decisions – is it worth it?
  • Talk to professor about prevalence of cheating – be a part of the systems change.

Delegate

  • Talk to an academic advisor
  • Talk to a mentor or TA

 

Other Strategies for Success

  • Decide for yourself not to cheat.
  • Accept ownership for your academic success.
  • Set academic goals
  • Do not miss class
  • Study every day
  • Read and follow your class syllabus – plan ahead
  • Get help as soon as you need it
  • Build a relationship with your professor or the TA
  • Review all your exams
  • Participate in class
  • Plan Properly
  • Communicate Effectively- talk to your professor
  • Disclose – be honest and open about your situation
  • Know the material – take good notes
  • When in doubt – CITE!

 


Resources

Handouts

Local

  • University Code of Conduct
  • Professors
  • Academic Staff
  • Dean of Students Office
  • Tutoring
  • Teaching Centers or Learning Centers on campus
  • Other support systems


National

Including types of plagiarism, ways to prevent and FAQs:

  • The Purdue OWL - Online Writing Lab – EXCELLENT!
  • VAILTutor: An Online Tutorial providing an overview of academic integrity concepts and practical tips for avoiding plagiarism. Center for Intellectual Property, University of Maryland University College, 2003
  • Plagiarism Resource Site (Including self test)
  • Plagiarism in the Digital Age: plagiarism.org
  • A Way for Students to check their work – Write Check

 

The University of Arizona C.A.T.S. Life Skills Program, along with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and national leading experts, has developed Step UP! Be a Leader, Make a Difference.