It is important to understand common breaches of the Academic Conduct Policy so that you can avoid them.
Below are the definitions and some examples of common breaches from the Academic Conduct Policy. For a full description, please review the Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures.
Cheating
Definition
The attempt to gain an improper advantage in an academic evaluation.
Some Examples
- Looking at a copy of the exam/exam questions before the test.
- Copying and pasting wording from any other source (a website like Chegg.com, generative AI like ChatGPT, Quillbot, etc., course readings or other student’s work) and misrepresenting it as your own.
- Talking with students in a WhatsApp/WeChat group during a test or exam.
- Paying someone to write your assignments.
- Selling assignments, course materials or notes.
- Taking notes into exams or writing information on calculators, your arms or hands.
- Using unauthorized electronic devices or technologies, such as earbuds, small cameras, or cell phones, to share exam information or receive assistance during exams.
Plagiarism
Definition
Misappropriation of the work of another by representing another person’s ideas, writing or other intellectual property as one’s own.
Some Examples
- Writing a paper or assignment with wrong citations or no citations. This misrepresents other people’s ideas as your own.
- Submitting work done in one class for another class.
Misrepresentation of Personal Identity or Performance
Definition
To have someone impersonate you in class, in a test, examination or interview, or in connection with any other type of assignment or placement associated with a course or academic program.
Some Examples
- Have a ghostwriter complete assignments or tests for you.
- Paying someone to write a test for you, either in-person or online.
- Using fake or altered IDs to write exams.
- Sharing your ID or PPY (Passport York) with someone else.
Fraudulent Conduct
Definition
Conduct that would be deemed fraudulent to a reasonable person.
Some Examples
- Engaging in the selling of essays or assignments.
- Submitted forged medical documents.
- Using the intellectual property of Course Directors for distribution, sale, or indirect profit.
Questions?
Not sure what to do or if something is a breach of academic conduct? Review York’s Academic Conduct Policy or reach out to an Academic Honesty Coordinator at lapshonesty@yorku.ca.