Avoiding Plagiarism in the Classroom with Purdue's Online Writing Lab
“There are few intellectual offenses more serious than plagiarism in
academic and professional contexts. This resource offers advice on how
to avoid plagiarism in your work.” – Purdue Online Writing Lab
Knowing that plagiarism is academically, and potentially morally, wrong is one major hurdle in education. However, another equally important step is knowing how to avoid this plagiarism. This is where Purdue’s oft consulted Online Writing Lab yet again comes in handy.
Within the confines of this resource is a specific section dedicated to making students aware of what plagiarism is and how it can be avoided. Traditionally, information regarding the proper citation of resources was provided in the Modern Language Association handbook (if using MLA, for example). This information, however, frequently became outdated, leaving frustrated researchers and students alike fumbling in the dark until a new edition came out. The digital age, thankfully, has allowed instantaneous modification of these guidelines, and this is documented here at the OWL.
Not only does the site provide information for the conscientious student, but also a clear and concise database for educators. The “Best Practices for Teachers” subpage provides a number of classroom activities, exercises, and discussion questions to continue the conversation in the classroom.