Factors Influencing Plagiarism Amongst Undergraduate Students at an Institution of Higher Learning: Kwazulu-Natal

Abstract

Plagiarism is seen as a form of dishonesty, especially within an Institution of Higher Learning.It is a phenomenon that has been encountered more often inside the classroom over the past few years with easier access to technology.Plagiarism has therefore been classified as a multi-layer phenomenon of dishonesty in Higher Education and continues to be a leading concern within Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL).According to Plagiarism Policy and Procedures for staff and students, the responsibility for developing an understanding of plagiarism lies with the university for students' academics, as it puts their academic life at risk if caught committing the act of plagiarising.Socialisation, gender, and easy access to electronic information through the internet are contributing factors driving plagiarism.In addition, students do not learn or gain anything from plagiarism; this, therefore, robs them of their ability to be critical thinkers.The research aimed to determine the factors influencing plagiarism amongst undergraduate students at an Institution of Higher Learning.A cross-sectional descriptive survey employing quantitative data collection methods, including questionnaires, was used.The study was conducted at the University of Technology, and the target population was undergraduate students from their first to their final year.The significant findings of this research paper show that accessibility, pride, and teaching factors considerably influence plagiarism.In conclusion, there is a growing need for Intuitions of Higher Learning in South Africa to create comprehensive frameworks for dealing with student plagiarism that are based on prevention and supported by effective detection and sanctioning systems that are transparent and consistently applied.

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