Assignment 209: Research Methodology

 

Assignment 209: Research Methodology

Academic Integrity 

Name: Avani Jani

Roll No.: 3

Enrollment No.: 4069206420220014

Paper no: 209

Paper code: 22416

Paper name: Research Methodology

Sem.: 4 (Batch 2022- 2024)

Submitted to: Smt S.B. Gardi Department of English, M.K. Bhavnagar University

  Introduction : 

            In our ever-connected world, the ability to express ourselves clearly and effectively through writing has become more important than ever. Whether crafting a captivating social media post, composing a persuasive email, or tackling a complex academic essay, strong writing skills are the key to unlocking powerful communication. The good news? Like any skill, writing can be learned and honed. This journey will equip you with the tools to not only articulate your thoughts but also to shape them into impactful messages that resonate with your audience. 

            Strong writing skills are fundamental for clear and effective communication. They allow us to reach a broader audience than face-to-face interaction or other limited channels. There are two types of writing. that is: 1]Academic Writing  and  

                                                            2] Non-Academic Writing.

However, not all writing is created equal. Mastering the specific characteristics of academic writing is crucial. It sets itself apart from other forms of writing in its purpose, style, and structure. The following points are the most important for Academic Writing:

                                 

Amongst all these points, Plagiarism and academic integrity are the most important part of writing which plays a crusial role in your writing. 

            The creation of any creative, critical, or research work demands immense dedication and intellectual effort. It represents the culmination of countless hours of focused work and exploration. As the MLA handbook recognizes, these original works are considered the intellectual property of their creators. When someone utilizes another's work to build upon existing knowledge or develop new ideas, proper attribution is essential. Responsible writers meticulously acknowledge their sources, whether they aim to support, challenge, or analyze the original work. Academic Integrity and Plagiarism are two sides of one coin. Academic integrity is directly connected with plagiarism. so it is important to have a brief look at what is plagiarism? 

What is Plagiarism?

        The word "plagiarism" originates from the Latin term "plagiarius," which translates to "kidnapper." It describes the act of stealing someone else's ideas or work and presenting them as your own. This can involve both directly copying existing content and passing off someone else's concept as a novel idea. (Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary )

        There are two primary forms of plagiarism. The first involves using another person's ideas, information, or wording without properly acknowledging their work. This essentially constitutes intellectual theft, as you're taking credit for someone else's efforts. The second form involves presenting someone else's ideas, information, or wording as entirely your own. This can be done to gain an unfair advantage, such as a better grade, and is considered academic fraud. It's important to note that plagiarism is often more of a moral and ethical offense than a legal one. This is because copyright infringement, a legal concept, doesn't always apply in all plagiarism cases.

        Plagiarism is presenting someone else’s work or ideas as your own, with or without their consent, by incorporating it into your work without full acknowledgment. All published and unpublished material, whether in manuscript, printed, or electronic form, is covered under this definition. - Oxford 

What is Academic Integrity? 

        The University of Georgia defines academia Honesty as “ completing all academic work without cheating, lying, stealing, or receiving assistance from any other person or using any source of information not appropriately authorized or attributed. (“Introduction | Academic Honesty Policy | Home”)

        Academic dishonesty, which encompasses behaviors such as cheating, plagiarism, and falsification of data or citations, is a widespread and troubling phenomenon in higher education.  It may be as simple as looking over a classmate’s shoulder during a quiz or as elaborate as hiring a ghostwriter online for a course paper, but whatever the method employed, academic dishonesty harms the learning experience and gives cheaters an unfair advantage over those who abide by the rules. (Keith)

        Academic integrity refers to the commitment to honesty and ethical behavior in all academic endeavors. This is exemplified by the University of Georgia's definition, which emphasizes completing work without resorting to cheating, plagiarism, or unauthorized assistance. The passage by Keith further clarifies that academic integrity stands in opposition to academic dishonesty, which encompasses a range of behaviors that undermine the learning process. These behaviors can be as minor as peeking at someone's work during an exam or as serious as commissioning someone else to complete your assignments.

        In essence, academic integrity ensures a fair and level playing field for everyone. It promotes a learning environment where students develop genuine knowledge and skills through honest effort, rather than through dishonest shortcuts.

What are the consequences of academic dishonesty?

Northern Illinois University considers these 8 main aspects that affects while committing Academic Dishonesty:  

1. Consequences for Academic Dishonesty 

2. Social Consequences 

3. Loss of intellectual property 

4. Inaccurate assessment 

5. Practical concerns 

6. Legal consequences 

7. Other social/academic consequences 

8. Students' self-esteem

        The repercussions of academic dishonesty vary depending on the gravity of the transgression and the specific policies of the institution in question. Penalties may encompass a mere caution for a initial violation, a failing grade for a course, or even expulsion from the university.  In particular disciplines such as nursing, engineering, or laboratory sciences, inadequate mastery of foundational concepts can directly jeopardize the well-being and safety of individuals. In the realm of academia and research, engaging in academic dishonesty can tarnish one's professional standing, casting doubt upon the integrity of their future endeavors.

NEP 2020: 

        NEP 2020 also mentions about Academic Honesty, “Use and integration of technology to improve multiple aspects of education will be supported and adopted, provided these interventions are rigorously and transparently evaluated in relevant contexts before they are scaled up.” (“National Education Policy 2020”)  While debate for Open Book Exam is ongoing, ‘The Hindu’ mentions  about the Academic Honesty that “Teachers should know that an open-book examination works better when answers cannot be readily extracted from materials, text, and reference books during the test.” (Jesiah)

What are the Values of Academic Integrity?

1] Honesty: 

Hon·es·ty 

noun  

The quality of being honest, free from fraud or deception, legitimate, truthful.(“Honesty Definition & Meaning”)  Honesty begins with individuals and extends out into the larger community. As students and faculty seek knowledge, they must be honest with themselves and with each other. In study halls and laboratories, in libraries, playing fields, and classrooms, cultivating and practicing honesty lays a foundation for lifelong integrity. 

Ways to demonstrate honesty:   

· Be truthful   

· Give credit to the owner of the work (i.e., musician, author, artist, speaker etc.)   

· Keep promises   

· Provide factual evidence   

· Aspire to objectivity, consider all sides and one's own potential preconceptions.  (“THE FUNDAMENTAL VALUES OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY”)

2] Trust:

TRUST 

noun. 

        The assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone or something.(“Trust Definition & Meaning”)  Trust serves as a cornerstone in academic endeavors, providing a vital foundation for scholarly pursuits. Within the academic community, it is imperative that the authenticity of work, whether originating from students or researchers, remains unquestionable. Equitable application of standards ensures the integrity of contributions, fostering an environment where trust thrives. Such trust is paramount, allowing for the seamless integration of existing research into new inquiries and facilitating progress with assurance. In an atmosphere of trust, collaboration flourishes, encouraging the free exchange of information and the exploration of innovative ideas, unencumbered by apprehension or doubt.

Ways to demonstrate trust: 

 · Clearly state expectations and follow through   

· Promote transparency in values, processes, and outcomes   

· Trust others  

· Give credence   

· Encourage mutual understanding   

· Act with genuineness.  (“THE FUNDAMENTAL VALUES OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY”)

3] Fairness:

fair·ness  

noun 

        The quality or state of being fair, especially fair or impartial treatment, lack of favoritism toward one side or another.(“Fairness Definition & Meaning”)  Fair treatment fosters ethical communities, emphasizing truth, logic, and rationality. Key fairness components include predictability, transparency, and clear expectations. All academic members deserve fairness: faculty lead with clarity and integrity, students produce original work and uphold integrity, and administrators provide just policies. Consistent responses to dishonesty and impartial evaluation build trust between faculty and students.

Ways to demonstrate fairness:   

 · Apply rules and policies consistently   

· Engage with others equitably  

 · Keep an open-mind   

· Be objective  

 · Take responsibility for your own actions.  (“THE FUNDAMENTAL VALUES OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY”) 

4] Respect:

re·spect   

        

noun

         High or special regard, esteem; the quality or state of being esteemed  Respect in academia is mutual: self-respect involves upholding personal values, while respecting others entails embracing diverse opinions. Scholarly success hinges on valuing community members and their varied perspectives. Vibrant learning thrives on active engagement, robust debate, and civility. Students show respect by engaging actively, listening, and performing well. Faculty respect students by nurturing their ideas and providing honest feedback. Recognizing and citing intellectual contributions is crucial. Fostering respectful environments is both personal and communal duty.

Ways to demonstrate respect:   

· Practice active listening  

 · Receive feedback willingly   

· Accept that others’ thoughts and ideas have validity   

· Show empathy   

· Seek open communication   

· Affirm others and accept differences   

· Recognize the consequences of our words and actions on others

5] Responsibility:

re·spon·si·bil·i·ty 

 noun  

        The quality or state of being responsible; moral, legal, or mental accountability; reliability, trustworthiness. (“Responsibility Definition & Meaning”)  Upholding integrity is both personal and collective. Every academic community member is responsible for maintaining integrity in scholarship, teaching, research, and service. Shared accountability empowers positive change and inspires integrity. Responsibility involves standing against misconduct, resisting peer pressure, and setting positive examples. Faculty enforce policies and communicate expectations, while students understand and follow them. Institutions ensure alignment with their mission and vision across all activities and policies.

Ways to demonstrate responsibility:  

 · Hold yourself accountable for your actions   

· Engage with others in difficult conversations, even when silence might be easier  

 · Know and follow institutional rules and conduct codes   

· Create, understand, and respect personal boundaries  

 · Follow through with tasks and expectations   

· Model good behavior

6] Courage : 

cour·age  

   noun  

     The mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. (“Courage Definition & Meaning”)  Courage, a quality of character, can be developed through practice. It involves acting in line with one's values despite fear. In academic integrity, courage entails upholding standards even when facing risks. Faculty, students, and administrators must exhibit courage to maintain integrity and hold others accountable. Decision-making and action based on integrity require courage, fostering strong and enduring communities.

Ways to demonstrate courage: 

 

 · Be brave even when others might not 

  · Take a stand to address wrongdoing and support others doing the same  

 · Endure discomfort for something you believe in   

· Be undaunted in defending integrity   

· Be willing to take risks and risk failure  (“THE FUNDAMENTAL VALUES OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY”) 

Conclusion:

        In conclusion, academic honesty stands as the cornerstone of scholarly pursuits, embodying values such as integrity, trust, fairness, respect, responsibility, and courage. Upholding these fundamental principles not only fosters a culture of integrity within academic communities but also ensures the credibility and reliability of research, teaching, and learning processes. As students, faculty, and administrators, it is our collective responsibility to uphold these values and to nurture an environment where academic integrity thrives. By committing ourselves to honesty and ethical conduct, we not only uphold the standards of excellence but also contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the betterment of society as a whole.

Words: 1916

Works Cited

YouTube. "Home." 9 November 2017, https://www.youtube.com/. Accessed 2 April 2024.

Merriam-Webster. "Courage Definition & Meaning." Accessed 3 April 2024.

Merriam-Webster. "Fairness Definition & Meaning." 21 March 2024, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fairness. Accessed 2 April 2024.

International Center for Academic Integrity. "THE FUNDAMENTAL VALUES OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY." https://academicintegrity.org/resources/fundamental-values. Accessed 2 April 2024.

Merriam-Webster. "Honesty Definition & Meaning." Accessed 2 April 2024.

Academic Honesty. "Introduction | Academic Honesty Policy | Home." Accessed 2 April 2024, https://iastate.pressbooks.pub/academicintegrity/part/introduction/.

Jesiah, Selvam. “Open-book exams as an assessment tool in higher education.” The Hindu, 16 March 2024, https://www.thehindu.com/education/open-book-exams-as-an-assessment-tool-in-higher-education/article67941979.ece. Accessed 3 April 2024.

Keith, Thomas. “Literature Review: Academic Dishonesty – What Causes It, How to Prevent It | Academic Technology Solutions.” Academic Technology Solutions, 16 November 2018, https://academictech.uchicago.edu/2018/11/16/literature-review-academic-dishonesty-what-causes-it-how-to-prevent-it/. Accessed 2 April 2024.

“National Education Policy 2020.” Ministry of Education, https://www.education.gov.in/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/NEP_Final_English_0.pdf. Accessed 3 April 2024.

“Responsibility Definition & Meaning.” Merriam-Webster, 24 March 2024, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/responsibility. Accessed 3 April 2024.

“Trust Definition & Meaning.” Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trust. Accessed 2 April 2024.