Assignment 1: Discussion-Academic Cheating

Let's take the opportunity in this module's discussion assignment to explore our own personal definition of plagiarism and cheating and how academic cheating affects all of us.

Using the readings for this module and your research about plagiarism on the Internet, respond to the following:

• What is your definition of cheating and plagiarism?

• Is academic cheating out of control?

• Is there more plagiarism happening now than in the past? Why? Support your answer with reasons.

• Are there any extenuating circumstances where cheating and plagiarism are acceptable?

• What is the impact of cheating or plagiarism on one's future profession?

Write your initial response in about 150-200 words. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.

Post your response to the appropriate Discussion Area. Review and comment on at least two peers' responses.

Assignment 2: Opponent's Perspective

In M9: Assignment 1 (Academic Cheating), you picked a position on the question of cheating and plagiarism, its current prevalence: its pro or con.

It is easier to make a case for a particular point of view when one believes in that side of the argument. In his book The Art of War, Sun Tzu (2009) said, "Know your enemy" (p. 86). To successfully maintain a point of view, you need to know what your challenger might say to refute your arguments.

In this assignment, create an outline providing the opposing side of your argument and support your opposing perspective with a minimum of three to four distinct points. Include supporting subpoints and examples under each of your main points in order for your argument to be clearly envisioned.

• If you believe that cheating or plagiarism occurs more frequently now than it did in the past, then outline the points for opposing this point of view.

• If you believe that there is no more cheating or plagiarism happening now than it did in the past, create an outline that gives the contrary perspective.

Write your response in 150-200 words in Word format. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.

Tzu, S. (2009). The art of war. (T. Cleary, Trans). Boston, MA: Shambhala Pocket Classics.

Stated the opposing side of argument in a clear and concise manner.

Justified the argument with adequate reasons and examples.

Wrote in a clear, concise, and organized manner; demonstrated ethical scholarship in accurate representation and attribution of sources; displayed accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.