Syllabus
A carefully constructed syllabus containing references to the Student Code of Conduct and clear expectations surrounding academic integrity can significantly contribute to fewer instances of academic dishonesty. At the beginning of each semester, instructors are encouraged to engage with their students in a discussion of the Code of Conduct and their expectation that students abide by University policies, that students familiarize themselves with the Code, and that students ask questions if they are unclear regarding the policies or expectations of the course.
Below are some suggestions for syllabus language that may be helpful to instructors seeking to clearly delineate their course expectations surrounding academic integrity.
Affirmation of the Student Code
Ideally, all class syllabi would actively affirm the application of the Student Code of Conduct at UNC. For example:
“Academic integrity is at the heart of Carolina and we all are responsible for upholding the ideals of honor and integrity. Student Conduct is responsible for adjudicating any suspected violations of the Student Code of Conduct and all suspected instances of academic dishonesty will be referred to Student Conduct. Information, including your responsibilities as a student, is outlined in the Student Code of Conduct and accompanying Student Conduct Procedures. Your full participation and observance of the Student Code are expected.”
Additional Examples
Academic integrity is a fundamental value of our community. All students are expected to uphold honesty, integrity, respect, ethical decision-making, and responsibility in their academic work. The Student Code of Conduct prohibits cheating, plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, data/information falsification, and other forms of academic misconduct.
Expectations for This Course
By enrolling in this course, you agree to:
- Complete all work independently unless collaboration is explicitly permitted
- Cite and acknowledge all sources appropriately
- Follow assignment instructions and ask questions when uncertain
- Engage honestly and ethically in all academic activities
Reporting Academic Misconduct
If academic misconduct is suspected, I will submit a report to the Office of Student Conduct. Students will be contacted by Student Conduct and given an opportunity to share their perspective as part of a fair, educational process.
Support for Your Learning
If you are unsure about citation, permitted collaboration, or assignment expectations, please ask. Upholding integrity supports your learning and protects the value of your degree.
Define Academic Dishonesty
At the beginning of the semester spend a few minutes discussing course expectations surrounding academic integrity. Talk to students using clear, common language about the University’s definitions and descriptions of academic violations.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism in the form of intentionally or recklessly representing of another’s words, thoughts, or ideas as one’s own without appropriate citation or attribution. Plagiarism can take many forms and there may be a number of reasons why it occurs. The more specific instructors can be in explaining what constitutes plagiarism in their particular course, the less likely the violation is to occur. Some are examples are as follows:
“Quote and cite any words that are not your own.”
“If you paraphrase the words of another, you must still give proper attribution.”
“If you look it up, write it down.”
Additionally, if there is a particular citation style that students must use, be specific about the style to be used and provide students resources they can use to learn more about that style.
Authorized vs. Unauthorized Collaboration
The following is an example of how the difference between unauthorized vs. authorized collaboration could be discussed in the syllabus:
“All academic work in this course, including homework, quizzes, and exams, is to be your own work, unless otherwise specifically provided. It is your responsibility if you have any doubt to confirm whether or not collaboration is permitted.” Whenever possible, be clear and concise. Ambiguous statements often lead to confusion by the student.
Unauthorized materials
Be explicit about what materials may be used by students in completing academic assignments. If, for example, students are not allowed to use old exams, outside resources, internet articles, or any other such materials, this should be clearly stated both in the syllabus and in connection with the individual assignment. This should include a statement on use of generative Artificial Intelligence.
Resources for Additional Information
Instructors should be mindful of the needs of international and other students who, because of their cultural differences or unique prior educational experiences, may need additional supportive resources to avoid unintentionally committing academic misconduct. Resources available to help students are the Writing Center, the Learning Center, Accommodations,, and many more on campus. Here is a comprehensive list of UNC Resources.
Additionally, Student Conduct recognizes that the requirements for course syllabi cannot include all of the information relevant to the definition and enforcement of academic integrity. Invite students with questions or concerns to seek additional information from you or by contacting us.