Academic Honesty

Academic Honesty

University of Phoenix

The Importance of Maintaining Academic Honesty



Beginning with my admittance to the University of Phoenix, which I am excited and proud to be a member of, I was made aware of the University's policies against plagiarism and all other forms of academic dishonesty. I have carefully reviewed many sources including documentation from the University of Phoenix and articles from our online library, as well as done independent study online and in my local library to confirm I fully understand what it means, theoretically, and practically, to maintain my integrity and prepare all of my work to meet the highest academic standards. I recognize that attending the University of Phoenix is a unique opportunity, which lets me practice these skills while drawing from my own prior professional experience, so that I am in an opportune position to excel. I also realize that in order to take advantage of this opportunity I must demonstrate respect for the institution, my professors, and fellow students, by submitting only original or properly cited and referenced work (Levy, Rakovski, 2006).
I have found many clear definitions of plagiarism, which is a primary concern to guard against when I submit any assignment. I understand that plagiarism may be intentional, in the case of an attempt to pass off another's work as my own, through deception, or unintentional, in the case of using work where I am unsure how to properly attribute the work, or unaware that my submission is overly similar to another author's prior contributions (Smith, Nolan, Dai, 1998). However, regardless of the specifics, I know that plagiarism to any extent, from one word, to an entire essay, is absolutely unacceptable and can not be excused by any type of rationalization (Mathews, 1933). Plagiarizing only hinders the free expression of ideas which higher education aims to encourage, and is disrespectful to the entire academic community, as well as to myself.
In addition to...