Honor Code

We encourage faculty to include specific statements about the Honor Code on their course syllabi and to familiarize themselves with the Honor System and process. Students are bound by the Honor System even if their instructors do not discuss the Honor Code or use turnitin.com to encourage originality and authenticity. Therefore, we recommend that students discuss all questions about plagiarism, impermissible collaboration, and appropriate attribution (citing sources) with their course instructors.

Reporting a Possible Honor Code Violation

As a faculty member at SCS, you must report any and all suspected violations of the Honor Code to the Honor Council as soon as you become aware of the possible violation. Although you may also choose to speak with your Associate Dean about the matter, reporting the incident to the Honor Council is your most important step.

Shortly after you report the incident, you will be contacted by an Investigating Officer (IO) to discuss the details of your report. The IO will also speak with the student and, if necessary, other affiliated parties. Please keep copies of all emails, papers, tests, and any other documentation related to your report.

Upon completing this initial investigation, the IO will either (a) determine that no violation has occurred or (b) refer the case to a Hearing Board for further review. If the student is found not in violation, you must treat the student as if no violation has occurred and grade the assignment based solely upon its academic merits. You cannot retaliate against a student if he/she is found not in violation.

Appearing Before the Hearing Board

If the case is referred to a Hearing Board, you may be asked to attend an evening hearing. The Board consists of students, faculty members, and the hearing chairperson. Everything reported in the hearing remains confidential and should not be discussed outside of the hearing.

The Board will complete its review and either (a) determine that no violation has occurred or (b) refer the case to a Hearing Board for further review. If the student is found not in violation, you must treat the student as if no violation has occurred and grade the assignment based solely upon its academic merits. You cannot retaliate against a student if he/she is found not in violation. If the student is found in violation, you are free to assign the reduced grade (including a failure in the course) as appropriate. Please note: The sanction of the Board is separate from the academic merit (grade) you choose to assign upon completion of the hearing.

If the suspected violation occurs when grades are due at the end of the semester, you should assign an "NR" (not reported) as a placeholder until the hearing has been completed. Thereafter, you can email the Interim Associate Dean of Academic Affairs with the final grade.