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Academic Misconduct Policies

As a college student, it is crucial to understand the consequences of academic misconduct and take proactive steps to avoid engaging in such behaviors. Academic misconduct refers to actions or behaviors that violate the principles of academic integrity and ethical standards within the college setting.

Examples

Examples of academic misconduct include, but are not limited to:

  • Cheating on an exam or quiz
  • Taking credit for the work or efforts of another without authorization or citation
    (this includes using, without Instructor authorization, generative artificial intelligence software or websites)
  • Use of unauthorized materials or fabricated data in any academic exercise
  • Forging or falsifying academic documents or records
  • Intentionally impeding or damaging the academic work of others
  • Engaging in conduct aimed at making a false representation of a student’s academic performance
  • Assisting other students in any of these acts.

First and foremost, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the institution’s specific policies on academic integrity. These policies outline what constitutes academic misconduct, the disciplinary actions that can be taken, and the procedures for reporting and addressing such incidents. Policies can be viewed in Chapter 14 of the Universities of Wisconsin Code.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is a common form of academic misconduct and occurs when you present someone else’s work or ideas as your own without proper citation or acknowledgment. To avoid plagiarism, always give credit to the author by citing your sources correctly, whether you are using direct quotes, paraphrasing, or summarizing their work. Familiarize yourself with the appropriate citation style (e.g. APA, MLA) and utilize reference management tools to help you keep track of your sources. Find tools and resources on the library’s website about Plagiarism.

Cheating

Cheating during exams, quizzes or assignments is another form of academic misconduct. To avoid this, make sure to thoroughly understand the guidelines and expectations set by your instructors. Prepare for exams and assignments well in advance, so you have sufficient time to study and complete the work independently. Avoid seeking or giving unauthorized assistance, such as using hidden notes, electronic devices, or communicating with others during exams or assignments unless explicitly permitted by the instructor.

Forgery

Forgery and falsification involve inventing or altering data, information, or citations. To avoid these practices, ensure that you accurately represent your findings, results, and sources. Do not forge data or manipulate results to fit your desired outcome. Honesty and integrity should guide your academic work.

Unauthorized Collaboration

Unauthorized collaboration is another common form of academic misconduct. While group work is often encouraged, it is important to distinguish between collaboration and copying someone else’s work. If you are working on a group project, clearly define the boundaries of collaboration, and ensure that each member contributes their fair share. When working independently, be cautious about discussing or sharing your work with others, as it may cross the line into unauthorized collaboration.

In addition to understanding what constitutes academic misconduct, it is vital to utilize available resources to enhance your skills and knowledge. Utilizing services like workshops, writing tutors, academic coaching, and other academic support services will help you develop proper research, writing, and study skills. These resources can teach you effective citation techniques, critical thinking, time management, and help you avoid unintentional violations of academic integrity.

Lastly, always remember the importance of personal responsibility and ethics in your academic journey. Act with integrity, take pride in your own work, and respect the intellectual property of others. When in doubt, consult your instructors or academic advisors for guidance on ethical dilemmas you may encounter.

By adhering to the principles of academic integrity and avoiding academic misconduct, you not only maintain your personal integrity but also contribute to a fair and honest learning environment that benefits the entire UW-Green Bay community.

Student’s Due Process Rights

When a student is accused of academic misconduct, they are entitled to due process rights to ensure a fair and unbiased resolution to the allegations. These rights include:

  1. A Conference with the Instructor or Investigating Officer, to hear the basis for the misconduct claim and have the opportunity to respond.
  2. A written decision informing the student of the decision regarding the charges.
  3. The right to appeal the decision, either the finding of responsibility, the sanction assigned, or both

Following a conference with the student, if the instructor still believes misconduct occurred, the following sanctions may be assigned:

  • An oral reprimand
  • A written reprimand presented only to the student
  • An assignment to repeat the work, to be graded on its merits
  • A lower or failing grade on the particular assignment or test
  • A lower or failing grade in the course
  • Removal of the student from the course in progress
  • A written reprimand to be included in the student’s disciplinary file

Should the incident in question be a repeat offense, and/or be so egregious, the matter is referred to an Investigating Officer from the Dean of Students office. Under these circumstances, the following sanctions may also be applied to the student:

  • Disciplinary probation
  • Suspension from the UW-System
  • Expulsion from the UW-System

If a student receives a written report, they will have the right to a hearing before the academic misconduct hearing committee to contest the determination that academic misconduct occurred, the choice of disciplinary sanction, or both. If the student desires a hearing, they must file a written request with the student affairs officer within 10 days of receiving the sanction.

Hearing Rights

If the student requests there be a hearing before the academic misconduct hearing committee, the hearing shall allow the student the following rights:

  • The student has the right to question witnesses, present evidence and their own witnesses, be heard on their own behalf, and be accompanied by an advisor of their choice.
  • The hearing committee shall make a record of the hearing. The record shall include a verbatim audio or video recording of the testimony and a file of the evidence offered. Any party to the hearing may obtain copies of the record.
  • The hearing committee shall prepare written findings of fact and a written statement of its decision.
  • The decision of the hearing committee shall be served to the student and shall become final within 10 days of receiving it.
  • In cases where the committee’s decision is to suspend or expel the student, the student has the right to appeal the decision to the Chancellor.