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 forget to cite or improperly cite sources forcing instructors to implicate them as plagiarists. We will be reviewing MLA citation and the necessity of proper citation throughout the term. I suggest that you take it upon yourselves to review proper citation techniques on your own, as well. If you’re concerned about how to cite something, ask me! If you're citing all your sources in your assignment, you shouldn't have an issue.

• Unfortunately, if I do come across an instance of plagiarism in your work, whether unintentional or intentional, I will have to impose a penalty. For what appears to be unintentional 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, just don’t! Plagiarism…it’s simply not worth it.

• Intentional plagiarism should never be considered as an option regardless of how desperate you believe your situation. Seek help rather than resort to thievery! I am available in multiple ways, (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 assist in your success.

• All that being said, I use plagiarism detection software with all of our assignments. So, be forewarned.