Plagiarism

BMCC's Plagiarism Policy:

• Plagiarism is the presentation of someone else’s ideas, words, or artistic/scientific/technical work as one’s own creation. A student who copies or paraphrases published or on-line material, or another person’s research, without properly identifying the source(s) is committing plagiarism.

• Plagiarism violates the ethical and academic standards of our college. Students will be held responsible for such violations, even when unintentional. To avoid unintended plagiarism, students should consult with their instructors about when and how to document their sources. The library also has both print and digital guides designed to help students cite sources correctly.

• Plagiarism carries a range of penalties commensurate with the severity of the infraction. The instructor may, for example, require the work to be redone, reduce the course grade, fail the student in the course, or refer the case to the Faculty-Student Disciplinary Committee (see Article 15.4 of the Bylaws of the Board of Trustees). Cases referred to that committee could result in suspension or expulsion from the college.

Professor's Plagiarism Policy:

• I like to believe that most plagiarism is unintentional. Students inadvertently improperly cite sources, forcing instructors to implicate them as plagiarists.  We will review MLA citations and the necessity of proper citations throughout the term. It would help if you took it upon yourself to review proper citation techniques independently.  If you’re concerned about how to cite something, ask me!  You shouldn't have an issue if you're citing all your sources in your assignment.  

• AI usage IS a form of plagiarism if copied word from word from a content generator. Dependence on AI-generated content robs you of the growth you are here to achieve as college students. In addition, AI-generated content often fails to meet the parameters of assignments and produces work that is insufficient to achieve high marks. Cultivate your talents and have confidence in your abilities and the wisdom of your voices to contribute intelligent and meaningful content! 

• Unfortunately, if I encounter an instance of plagiarism in your work, whether unintentional or intentional, I will have to impose a penalty. For what appears to be accidental plagiarism, you will either be required to redo the assignment or accept a failing grade. If Papers 1 or 2 exhibit blatant, intentional plagiarism, you will receive a failing grade on these assignments. 

• If plagiarism is intentional and reoccurring, you will be given a failing grade in this course and referred to the Disciplinary Committee.

• Bear in mind that plagiarism is considered a misdemeanor, but plagiarism with an exchange of money exceeding $2,500 is considered a felony offense.  Penalties, including fines up to $250,000 and ten years of jail time, are possible. Don’t buy or sell work, don’t! Plagiarism…it’s simply not worth it.

• Intentional plagiarism should never be considered an option, regardless of how desperate you believe your situation is. Seek help rather than resort to thievery! I am available via multiple methods (e-mail, Blackboard Collaborate, phone) and will happily work with you to the best of my ability. There are many services available here at BMCC to help you succeed.  

• That said, I use plagiarism detection software with all of our assignments. Please keep this in mind.