Illinois State University Plagiarism Policy

Regardless of whether or not the student admits to cheating, faculty are obligated to notify SDRS of any incident in which academic dishonesty is alleged.  It is very important to ensure that the University as a whole is represented in such cases, and to make sure a student isn’t making the same “innocent mistake” in several classes at once.

When an incident of academic dishonesty is referred to this office, we will evaluate it to see what steps may be appropriate, depending upon the circumstances, the response of the student, and the wishes of the faculty member.  In all cases, SDRS staff will meet with the student and discuss University action, in addition to whatever grade penalty is assessed by the faculty member.

Faculty should not assess a grade penalty if the student denies having cheated.  In such cases, the incident should immediately be referred to SDRS for adjudication.  If necessary, the student should be given an “incomplete” grade for the course pending the outcome of disciplinary proceedings.

In cases where a student admits to cheating, an administrative decision may be appropriate.  A minimum of one year of disciplinary probation is the standard precedent for such violations, in addition to appropriate educational sanctions.  This may be modified depending upon circumstances, including but not limited to the severity of the incident and the student’s previous disciplinary history.

If a student denies the allegations, or if the student already has a significant disciplinary record, the case will be referred to the University Hearing Panel (UHP).  The UHP is made up of faculty, students, and staff who have been trained by SDRS to hear evidence and make decisions regarding violations of the Student Code of Conduct.