Plagiarism detection and avoidance using Turnitin

 Plagiarism has been recognised as an increasing issue across the HE sector. It is argued that the internet is an almost limitless resource that can easily be misused, and that it can be very difficult to identify source materials if plagiarism is suspected.
UWIC had been trialling CopyCatch as a plagiarism and collusion detection tool. However, January 2008 saw the implementation of TurnItIn software to help identify and deter instances of plagiarism at UWIC. The TurnItIn software is fully integrated into all Blackboard modules, allowing tutors to choose how and when they wish to use the functionality to best suit the particular demands of their module and their learners.

TurnItIn offers a simple method for students to submit work electronically, which is then analysed with reference to 5 billion website URLs, an extensive journal collection and other student works submitted to TurnItIn. A detailed report is then generated that highlights passages of unoriginal material, which the tutor can use to assess whether plagiarism has occurred. Such reports can also be used as an aid to help develop the student’s understanding of plagiarism.

The LTDU promotes the use of Turnitin as an aid to help tutors educate their students about plagiarism, though it can not be considered a standalone teaching tool.
The Turnitin system has been piloted across all schools and is being routinely used in many programmes and modules. It integrates into Blackboard, so provides a streamlined method for electronic submission and plagiarism prevention.

If you would like further details or to arrange training for you and your colleagues, please contact blackboardhelp@uwic.ac.uk. There are also some Turnitin resources on our Blackboard help site here


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