Academic Misconduct Self-Help Guide
Introduction
Academic misconduct can feel worrying, but you're not alone. This guide is here to help you understand what academic misconduct means, how to avoid it, and what to expect if you're contacted about a concern. Knowing the process can make everything feel more manageable and help you approach the situation with confidence.
If you are facing an allegation, this guide will help you to understand the procedure, explain your options and offer advice on how best to prepare for the process.
What is Academic Misconduct?
Academic misconduct occurs when a student gains, or attempts to gain, an unfair academic advantage by breaking the University's Academic Regulations. It can relate to any part of the assessment process.
Types of Academic Misconduct
Collusion
knowingly allow another student to submit your work
Impersonation
substituting another student in an exam, or submitting another person's work
Contract cheating
obtaining academic work from a third party
Improper exam conduct
being in possession of an unauthorised paper, materials or devices in an exam
Fabrication
misrepresenting data
Self-Plagiarism
submitting the same piece of your own work for assessment and award of credit in two (or more) modules
Plagiarism
submitting work that is not your own, including improper use of AI
Avoiding Academic Misconduct
It's possible to commit misconduct unintentionally, so take care when preparing and submitting your work. To protect yourself:
- Read and understand the University's Academic Regulations.
- Reference your work correctly.
- Keep drafts, notes, and evidence of your research.
- Ask your tutors if you're unsure what level of collaboration is allowed.
- Use authorised tools only and ensure you're using them appropriately. MyBib, Quilbot and other similar tools have an AI element to them which could result in you being suspected of academic misconduct.
Remember: there's a lot of support available at the University. Speak to your Module Leader if you're unsure of anything.
If you've been accused of Academic Misconduct
If a tutor suspects misconduct, they will report it to your Programme Leader. Familiarise yourself with the process using the below guide. This will help you feel better prepared for the meeting. If, after reading, you feel you need to speak to a Union Advisor, you can book an appointment using the booking form at the end of this webpage.
Remember: You are entitled to be accompanied by a Union Advisor at all stages.
Step One: Meeting with Programme Leader
You'll be invited to a meeting to discuss whether misconduct has occurred and whether it may have been due to inexperience or misunderstanding.
Most cases of academic misconduct can be resolved at this initial meeting. The meetings are usually only escalated if they feel you are being dishonest, if you have been accused previously or if the type of misconduct is believed to be 'widespread'.
Step Two: Meeting with Dean or Director
The relevant Dean or Director will hold a meeting with you to consider the evidence and determine the appropriate course of action. Notice of the meeting will be a minimum of five working days. You'll be able to bring witnesses, evidence, or representatives to the meeting.
Step Three: Formal Misconduct Panel
If the Dean or Director is unable to reach a conclusion, your case will be referred to a formal misconduct panel made up of University staff. We can help you prepare for the hearing and will be able to attend with you if you are happy for a Union representative to be there.
Penalties
Penalties depend on the seriousness of the case and whether there have been previous offences.
Remember: Students who are open and honest during the meeting will usually be given an outcome at stage one. If students are believed to being dishonest, they are more likely to have their case escalated to a step two or three meeting and to face more serious consequences.
Possible outcomes following a Step One meeting
- Dismissed, if academic misconduct is not found
- Advisory note on your student record
- Fixed penalty failed assessment, written warning
Possible outcomes following a Step Two or Three meeting
- Any of the outcomes given at Step One
- Written warning
- Failure of module
- In serious cases, the University may review marks or credit you've previously been awarded
- Expulsion from your programme
How to conduct yourself in the meeting
The most important thing to remember is that it's essential that you are open and honest in the meeting. Although it can be daunting, the meetings will run more smoothly and the outcome will be less severe than if you're found to be being dishonest.
Here's a checklist on what to do and what to avoid:
What to Do
- Be honest
- Arrive on time
- Check your tech before the meeting (if online), make sure you have signal, sound and your mic is working
- Bring any documents or evidence you need
- Listen carefully and respectfully
- Ask for a break if you need one. These are to be expected during these meetings and your advisor can speak with you in the break
- Take a moment to think before you speak, keeping answers clear and to the point
- Be reflective
What to Avoid
- Ignore or delay responding to the meeting invite
- Use inappropriate language, sarcasm, or be rude
- Talk over others or argue with the meeting
- Bring unrelated issues into the meeting
- Get defensive or refuse to engage in the process
- Dismiss the seriousness of the meeting
- Discuss the case with any students also involved in the process
- Attempt to record the meeting without consent
Can I appeal?
Yes. You can appeal against a proven misconduct outcome if you have valid grounds, such as:
- New and relevant evidence has become available
- The academic misconduct procedure was not followed correctly
Advisors from the Union of Students are experienced and trained representatives who can offer you support and guidance if you are being investigated for academic misconduct. If you need further advice please make an appointment to see an advisor.
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