Why are cheating and plagiarism a big deal? Because they diminish a student's credibility, trustworthiness, and worst yet, his/her integrity. In most high schools, cheating and plagiarism can lead to a failing grade and administrative disciplinary action. In college, cheating and plagiarism can lead to the destruction of a student's promising career, not to mention the loss of thousands of dollars in tuition that, sadly, will not lead to a degree.
According to a recent survey conducted by U.S. News and World Report, "80% of 'high achieving' high school students admit to cheating" (qtd. in Plagiarism.org). The same survey found "51% of high school students did not believe cheating was wrong." Unfortunately, many of these students are facing severe consequences for cheating and plagiarism (a form of cheating) -- everything from expulsion and failing grades to lawsuits.
To help students understand the seriousness of cheating and plagiarism, the Mustang Research Center is providing interactive tutorials and informational links (to the right) . We encourage students, teachers, and parents to read and discuss how and why plagiarism and cheating are unethical practices.