D1The meaning of academic honesty

Academic honesty must be seen as a set of values and skills that promote personal integrity and good practice in teaching, learning and assessment. It is influenced and shaped by a variety of factors including peer pressure, culture, parental expectations, role modelling and taught skills. Although it is probably easier to explain to candidates what constitutes academic dishonesty, with direct references to plagiarism, collusion and cheating in examinations, whenever possible the topic must be treated in a positive way, stressing the benefits of properly conducted academic research and a respect for the integrity of all forms of assessment for the Diploma Programme.

Although candidates must be taught to appreciate the merits of academic honesty, there must be no uncertainty over the consequences of acting in a dishonest manner or failing to observe the standard academic practice of acknowledging the work of another person. To do so would be a breach of the general regulations and constitute malpractice.

For further details refer to the IB publication Academic honesty and the relevant articles in the General regulations: Diploma Programme.