Innovating Integrity in Online Learning Contexts

Abstract

Plagiarism in online classes worries me. I have learned that I must take an active role in helping my students understand what I expect of them and how I can support them in their learning. Before I came to this conclusion, my approach to plagiarism had been to follow institutional policies and guidelines, which focus on identifying, proving and sanctioning plagiarism after it has occurred, rather than trying to prevent it in the first place. As I reflect on my particular experience with online courses, I realize that as an educator, I have agency and influence when it comes to helping to prevent plagiarism in my classes. I may not be able to prevent it 100% of the time, but I can have an impact in a positive way.