Plagiarism in higher education environment: causes and solutions

Abstract

In the academic arena, plagiarism is on the rise. As a consequence, Higher Learning Institutions are putting in place severe punitive measures. Most of these measures are more reactive than preventive because they focus on plagiarism detection and the kinds of punishments to administer to students who plagiarize. In fact, these measures fail to address particular or primary reasons for plagiarism in students’ works. This may be one of the reasons why such measures have done little to reduce the incidents of plagiarism. Using a desktop research pathway, this paper discusses the concept and practices of plagiarism and raises a number of issues which need to be considered in framing measures to address it. Among other workable strategies proposed in this paper include the (i) strengthening of reading and academic writing skills, (ii) institutionalization and dissemination of anti-plagiarism policy and (iii) using technology in detecting plagiarism among students’ work.

Keywords: Plagiarism, anti-plagiarism policies, academic, research skills development, higher education