Role of information professionals in alleviating student plagiarism for academic integrity in Kenyan universities: a review of literature

Abstract

Academic integrity is the commitment and demonstration of honest and moral behavior in an academic setting. This is most relevant at the university level as it relates to providing credit to other people when using their ideas. In simplest terms, it requires acknowledging the contribution of other people. Plagiarism is the act of taking someone else’s work and passing them off as your own. Student plagiarism is a known problem facing universities around the world. Plagiarism is perceived to be a growing problem in Kenyan universities and these universities are being required to devote increasing time and resources to combating it. This fraud behaviour of students in Kenyan universities is of great concern today. As result of explosion of plagiarism among Kenyan university students, these universities have been using technologies to detect and combat deceitful plagiarism behaviour of students. As information literacy experts, information professionals are especially suited to take the lead in educating students about plagiarism and promoting academic integrity. Librarians working in Kenyan universities can develop information literacy programs to address the issue of student plagiarism. Through combining librarians knowledge of research and information literacy with subject heading, and integrating these skills into the curriculum, students will feel more empowered and competent in their academic assignments. This article will review literature on different types of plagiarism practiced by Kenyan university students and the factors that have necessitated this norm. The paper will also give recommendations on how information professionals can help in alleviating the plagiarism menace.