Lesson 11.2: Referencing, Citation and Academic Integrity

Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore the importance of referencing, citation, and academic integrity in your studies, especially in Mathematics and Engineering. 📚

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:

• Understand why and when to cite, and differentiate between common knowledge and a source claim.
• Apply Harvard-style in-text citations and create reference lists.
• Recognize the concepts of plagiarism and collusion, including the university's expectations regarding academic integrity.
• Refer to data, formulas, diagrams, and online sources appropriately.
• Accurately cite and reference sources using Harvard style.

Why and When to Cite

Citing is used to give credit to the original sources of ideas, data, or texts you have used in your works. But when should you cite? Here are some guidelines:

Common Knowledge vs. Source Claims

Common Knowledge is information that is widely known and does not require citation. For example, everyone knows that the Earth revolves around the Sun. 🌍

Source Claims require citation. For example, if you state, 'According to Smith (2020), the Earth’s average distance from the Sun is about 93 million miles,' you must reference the work of Smith because you are using specific information from a unique source.

Harvard-Style In-Text Citation and Reference Lists

Harvard style is one of the most common citation formats used in educational institutions. Here is how to use it:

In-Text Citations

For paraphrases, include the author's last name and year of publication, like this:

• (Smith, 2020)

For direct quotes, include page numbers:

• (Smith, 2020, p. 15)

Creating a Reference List

At the end of your document, include a reference list in alphabetical order based on the authors' last names. Here's how to format a book reference:

Smith, J. (2020). *Introduction to Mathematics*. London: Math Publishers.

For a journal article:

Doe, A. (2021). 'Advanced Algebra and its Applications'. *Mathematical Journal*, 25(3), 45-60.

Understanding Plagiarism and Collusion

What is Plagiarism?

Plagiarism is presenting someone else's work or ideas as your own without proper acknowledgement. This includes copying texts, data, and even someone else's ideas without credit! 🚫

Understanding Collusion

Collusion involves working with others to produce work that is presented as individual work. For example, if two students write a paper together but submit them separately as their own work, this is collusion and is considered academic dishonesty.

Academic Integrity Expectations

Universities have strict policies regarding academic integrity which include:

• Submitting only your own work.
• Citing all sources used.
• Avoiding unauthorized collaboration on assignments.

Failure to adhere to these guidelines can result in severe consequences, including expulsion.

Referencing Data, Formulae, Diagrams, and Online Sources

When you reference data, formulae, or diagram, it's crucial to specify where you got them:

Citing Data and Formulae

Suppose you use a specific formula from a textbook:

According to Johnson (2019), the Pythagorean theorem can be expressed as $a^2 + b^2 = c^2$.

Here, you would reference the formula correctly in your reference list by including:

Johnson, R. (2019). *Mathematics for Engineers*. New York: Engineering Press.

Citing Diagrams

If you use a diagram, state where it originated:

See Figure 1 from Brown (2021) for a detailed look at force diagrams.

And in your reference list:

Brown, T. (2021). 'Understanding Forces'. *Physics Today*, 78(2), 34-39.

Citing Online Sources

Online resources should also be cited.

(Calculus Resource, 2023)

And include:

Calculus Resource. (2023). *Introduction to Calculus*. Available at: [URL].

Conclusion

In summary, referencing and citation are critical skills that help maintain academic integrity and give credit to original authors. By understanding when to cite, how to format citations using Harvard style, and the importance of avoiding plagiarism and collusion, you will be better equipped to succeed in your academic journey. Always remember: Integrity is key to your academic success! 🔑

Study Notes

• Cite to credit original sources.
• Common knowledge does not require citation, but source claims do.
• Use Harvard style for in-text citations and reference lists.
• Understand plagiarism and collusion to avoid academic dishonesty.
• Always reference data, formulas, diagrams, and online sources correctly.