Absolute integrity is expected of every Cornell student in all academic undertakings. Integrity entails a firm adherence to values most essential to an academic community, including honesty with respect to the intellectual efforts of oneself and others. Both students and faculty at Cornell assume the responsibility of maintaining and furthering these values. A Cornell student’s submission of work for academic credit implies that the work is the student’s own. Outside assistance should be acknowledged, and the student’s academic position truthfully reported. In addition, Cornell students have the right to expect academic integrity from each of their peers. It is plagiarism for anyone to represent another person’s work as his or her own. As stated in the University Code of Academic Integrity, “The maintenance of an atmosphere of academic honor . . . is the responsibility of the student and faculty. . .” To become better acquainted with academic integrity responsibilities, each student should read the Code of Academic Integrity. A copy may be obtained from the Engineering Advising Office, 180 Rhodes Hall, or from the Dean of the Faculty, 315 Day Hall. It is also available on the web here.

Gray areas sometimes exist when students study and work together. It is important that faculty state clearly what is expected, and that students understand what authorship citations an instructor expects. If you are uncertain whether a particular type of collaboration is permitted, such as lab partners using the same graph in individually prepared lab reports, it is your responsibility to clarify the matter with your instructor. Note too that the principle of academic integrity also applies to requests for homework extensions and for academic leniency in the case of missed lab sessions, classes or examinations.