What is considered cheating in the Academy?

The reason that gaining an unethical advantage, including plagiarism, is considered cheating in the Academy is due to the fundamental principles of academic integrity. Cheating undermines the learning process, creates an unfair advantage, and devalues the accomplishments of those who engage in honest work. Plagiarism, which involves using someone else's work or ideas without proper attribution, is seen as a serious violation because it misrepresents a student's own efforts and understanding, thus compromising the educational standards of the institution.

While collaborating with peers on assignments can sometimes be permitted depending on the guidelines provided by instructors, and seeking help from tutors is generally encouraged to enhance learning, these practices do not constitute cheating when done appropriately. Taking notes during lectures is also a standard academic practice aimed at reinforcing understanding and retaining information. In contrast, any act that deliberately seeks to misrepresent a student’s knowledge or skills, including unethical behaviors like plagiarism, clearly violates the Academy's values and standards for academic conduct.