Plagiarism cases at UEA nearly doubled last year

Of the 18 cases, 16 then went to a full panel hearing in front of University officials, and six students were removed from their studies due to the seriousness of the individuals’ cases.

In light of the increasing cases, the report states: “Even though the number of referrals has nearly doubled the small numbers involved continue to suggest that while we do have to meet the continuing challenge of ensuring that our students are suitably educated about the nature of plagiarism, we are broadly succeeding in that aim.”

In 2015/16, There were 167 confirmed plagiarism cases altogether: 96 by undergraduates and 71 by postgraduates, meaning postgrads are statistically more likely to plagiarise in their essays due to postgrads only making up one quarter of UEA’s student population (3,517 last academic year).

Of all of the reported cases, 40 per cent were by home or EU students, and 60 per cent were from overseas students.

Commenting on the issues, Undergraduate Education Officer Theo Antoniou-Phillips said: “Although the number of cases is comparatively small in comparison to other Unis, we remain concerned that the key drivers of the increases aren’t students wanting to cheat, it’s international students not understanding the rules.

“We have repeatedly called on the University to invest in plagiarism education to make sure students aren’t caught unnecessarily.”

The report explains the spike in low offences reported, stating: “In previous years only the serious offences were reported but from now on all breaches will be reported.”

In regards to students who find themselves prosecuted for accounts of plagiarism, Theo told the Tab: “The SU’s independent advice service is available to help and can be found in the advice office at the entrance to union house.”