Plagiarism and Programming: A Survey of Student Attitudes

Authors

Cheryl L. Aasheim, Georgia Southern University
Paige S. Rutner, Georgia Southern University
Lixin Li, Georgia Southern University
Susan R. Williams, Georgia Southern University

Abstract

This paper examines student attitudes towards a number of behaviors which range from acceptable means of seeking help on assignments to unacceptable behaviors such as copying from another student or paying someone to complete an assignment. Attitudes regarding such behaviors are compared based on the type of assignment (programming assignment, written essay, math problems). Findings indicate that students do perceive that there are differences in the acceptability of behaviors depending on assignment type. Further, the study examines the effect of an education campaign designed to increase student awareness as to which behaviors are permitted. Results suggest that faculty efforts to clarify expectations do result in a change in student attitudes regarding the acceptability of certain behaviors.

Recommended Citation

Aasheim, Cheryl L.; Rutner, Paige S.; Li, Lixin; and Williams, Susan R. (2012) "Plagiarism and Programming: A Survey of Student Attitudes," Journal of Information Systems Education: Vol. 23 : Iss. 3 , 297-314.
Available at: https://aisel.aisnet.org/jise/vol23/iss3/5