Academic Dishonesty and its Consequences
Faculty members have the right to choose whether or not to pursue suspected cases of plagiarism and cheating. When addressing plagiarism or cheating with reasonable evidence, the faculty member should meet with the student to discuss the concern. The student shall have the opportunity to share his/her side of the story and explain his/her behavior. Faculty members may consult with their Division Dean or Dean of Student Affairs when determining whether academic dishonesty has occurred. In situations where cheating or plagiarism has occurred, the faculty member is to determine the academic consequence in compliance with Ed Code, and Board policy and procedures, which prohibit dropping a student from a course. Faculty members shall inform students of the grade penalty that will be assessed. The consequences may include:
1. Receive a “0” on that assignment
2. Be referred to the Dean of Student Affairs for further disciplinary action
In situations where academic dishonesty has occurred, the faculty may also notify their Division Dean. All pertinent information such as exams, plagiarized sources, and/or other possible evidence should be retained by the instructor. Students will be referred to the Dean of Student Affairs and receive Due Process; students have the right to grieve an action they feel violates their student rights. The Dean of Student Affairs will address the behavior reasonably through the procedures outlined in Administrative Procedure 5520 – Student Conduct Procedures.
The Student Affairs Office will maintain records related to violations of academic dishonesty and other violations of the college Standards of Conduct policy.