What is Plagiarism?
Plagiarism = using someone’s work without giving credit.
“Work” includes:
- Words (sentences, paragraphs)
- Ideas (concepts, arguments, theories)
- Data (statistics, research findings)
- Images, graphs, tables
- Code (for programming assignments)
Even if you change a few words, it’s still plagiarism if you don’t cite the source.
Why It’s Serious
Plagiarism is academic theft.
Consequences at Kenyan universities:
- Zero on assignment (minimum)
- Fail the course
- Suspension (1-2 semesters)
- Expulsion (permanent removal)
- Degree revocation (even after graduation, if discovered)
- Damaged reputation (follows you professionally)
Kenyan universities use Turnitin (plagiarism detection software)—they will find copied content.
Not worth the risk.
Types of Plagiarism
1. Direct Plagiarism
What it is: Copy-pasting text without quotation marks or citation.
Example:
Original (from Ngugi wa Thiong’o, 1986):
“Language carries culture, and culture carries, particularly through orature and literature, the entire body of values by which we come to perceive ourselves and our place in the world.”
Plagiarized (in your essay):
Language carries culture, and culture carries, particularly through orature and literature, the entire body of values by which we come to perceive ourselves and our place in the world.
Why it’s wrong: Word-for-word copying without acknowledgment.
How to fix: Use quotation marks and cite.
Ngugi wa Thiong’o (1986, p. 15) argues that “language carries culture, and culture carries, particularly through orature and literature, the entire body of values by which we come to perceive ourselves and our place in the world.”
2. Paraphrasing Plagiarism
What it is: Rewording someone’s ideas without citation.
Example:
Original (from a journal article):
“The implementation of CBC in Kenya has faced significant challenges, including inadequate teacher training, insufficient resources, and resistance from parents unfamiliar with the new system.”
Plagiarized paraphrase:
CBC implementation in Kenya has encountered major challenges such as poor teacher training, lack of resources, and opposition from parents who don’t understand the new system.
Why it’s wrong: Even though words changed, it’s still someone else’s idea—needs citation.
How to fix: Paraphrase properly and cite.
Research indicates that CBC’s rollout in Kenya has been hindered by multiple factors, notably gaps in teacher preparation, resource constraints, and parental skepticism stemming from limited understanding of the competency-based approach (Ochieng, 2021).
3. Mosaic Plagiarism (Patchwriting)
What it is: Mixing copied phrases with your own words without proper citation.
Example:
Original:
“Mobile money has revolutionized financial inclusion in Kenya, enabling millions of previously unbanked individuals to access financial services through their mobile phones.”
Plagiarized (mosaic):
Mobile money has transformed financial inclusion in Kenya, allowing millions of people who were previously unbanked to use financial services via their phones.
Why it’s wrong: Chunks of original text (bolded) remain, just rearranged.
How to fix: Completely reword AND cite.
Kenya’s mobile money platforms have significantly expanded access to banking services, particularly among populations that lacked traditional bank accounts (Otieno & Kamau, 2020).
4. Self-Plagiarism
What it is: Submitting the same work to multiple courses without permission, or recycling parts of your previous work.
Example: You wrote an essay on corruption for Governance class. Next semester, you submit the same essay for Ethics class.
Why it’s wrong: Each assignment should be original work for that course. Reusing is dishonest.
Exception: If lecturer explicitly allows it, or you’re building on previous work (clearly stated and expanded).
How to avoid: Write new content for each assignment. If referencing your own previous work, cite it.
5. Accidental Plagiarism
What it is: Unintentional failure to cite, poor paraphrasing, or forgetting to use quotation marks.
Example: You took notes while researching, then later wrote your essay using those notes but forgot which ideas were yours vs. from sources.
Why it’s still plagiarism: Intent doesn’t matter—it’s still uncited work.
How to avoid:
- Take careful notes (clearly mark direct quotes, note sources immediately)
- Use citation as you write (don’t leave it to the end)
- Double-check all sources are cited
6. Source-Based Plagiarism
Types:
a) Citing sources you didn’t read:
- Copying someone’s reference list without reading those sources
b) Fabricating sources:
- Making up fake references to appear well-researched
c) Incorrect attribution:
- Attributing quote to wrong author
Why it’s wrong: Dishonest, misleading readers.
How to avoid: Only cite sources you’ve actually read and understood.
What is NOT Plagiarism
Common knowledge doesn’t need citation.
Examples of common knowledge:
- Kenya is in East Africa
- Nairobi is the capital of Kenya
- Humans need oxygen to survive
- Water boils at 100°C at sea level
Rule of thumb: If you can find the fact in 5+ general sources without author credit (encyclopedias, textbooks, basic websites), it’s common knowledge.
Your own ideas, analysis, and original research don’t need citation (but show your reasoning/evidence).
How to Avoid Plagiarism
1. Always Cite Sources
Every time you use:
- Someone else’s ideas
- Statistics, data
- Quotes
- Paraphrased information
Citation styles: APA, Harvard, MLA (use the one your course requires).
When in doubt, cite.
2. Use Quotation Marks for Direct Quotes
Short quote (less than 40 words in APA):
Wainaina (2020, p. 45) states that “corruption is the single greatest obstacle to Kenya’s development.”
Long quote (40+ words):
Block quote format (indented, no quotation marks), still cited.
3. Paraphrase Properly
Steps for good paraphrasing:
- Read original several times until you understand it
- Put original away (don’t look at it while writing)
- Write explanation in your own words (as if explaining to a friend)
- Check: Does it differ significantly in structure and vocabulary? (Not just synonym swaps)
- Cite the source
Bad paraphrase (too close):
Original: “Kenya’s Vision 2030 aims to transform the nation into a middle-income country.” Bad: Kenya’s Vision 2030 seeks to change the country into a middle-income nation.
Good paraphrase (restructured, own words):
Kenya has set an ambitious development agenda through Vision 2030, targeting middle-income status by the end of the decade (Government of Kenya, 2007).
4. Take Good Notes
While researching:
- Use quotation marks for exact phrases you copy
- Record source details immediately (author, year, title, page)
- Distinguish: Your thoughts vs. source material (use different colors, labels)
Prevents: Forgetting what needs citation.
5. Plan Ahead
Don’t rush assignments—leads to sloppy citation.
Start early: Time to research properly, cite as you write, proofread.
6. Understand the Assignment
Some assignments allow collaboration, others don’t.
Ask lecturer:
- Can we work in groups?
- Can we share resources?
- Can we discuss ideas?
Never: Submit identical work unless it’s a group assignment with all names listed.
7. Use Plagiarism Checkers
Before submitting, run your work through:
Free tools:
- Grammarly (free version has basic plagiarism check)
- Quetext (free scans)
- SmallSEOTools
- Duplichecker
University tool:
- Turnitin (your university likely uses this—lecturers submit your work)
Aim for: Turnitin similarity score below 20% (some universities set 15% as threshold).
High similarity? Revise, add more citations, paraphrase better.
8. Learn Citation Styles
Invest time learning APA or Harvard properly.
Resources:
- Purdue OWL (online writing lab)
- University library guides
- Citation generators (EasyBib, Zotero, Mendeley)
Practice: Citing becomes automatic with repetition.
9. Ask for Help
If unsure:
- Ask lecturer
- Visit university writing center
- Consult library staff
- Study with peers (compare citation approaches)
Better to ask than risk plagiarism.
10. Develop Your Own Voice
Don’t let quotes dominate your essay.
Balance:
- 10-20% quotes/paraphrases (supporting evidence)
- 80-90% your own analysis, synthesis, argument
Your role: Interpret, analyze, connect ideas—not just summarize sources.
Academic Integrity Beyond Plagiarism
Academic integrity = honesty in all scholarly work.
Includes:
1. No Cheating in Exams
- Don’t copy from others
- Don’t use unauthorized materials (notes, phones)
- Don’t communicate with others during exams
2. No Contract Cheating
Contract cheating = paying someone to do your work.
Examples:
- Hiring someone to write your essay
- Buying assignments online
- Asking friend to write for you (even if free)
Why it’s wrong: Defeats purpose of education, you learn nothing, it’s fraud.
Consequences: Same as plagiarism (expulsion possible).
Rise of contract cheating in Kenya: Many online services—don’t use them.
3. No Fabrication/Falsification
- Fabrication: Making up data, research results, sources
- Falsification: Manipulating data to support your hypothesis
In research: Extremely serious—undermines entire scientific process.
4. No Collusion (Unless Allowed)
Collusion = working together when assignment requires individual work.
If assignment is individual: Write it alone.
If group assignment: All names listed, everyone contributes.
Don’t: Write your essay, then share with friends who copy it (both of you guilty of collusion).
5. Proper Data Management
In research:
- Store data securely
- Don’t manipulate results
- Report honestly (even if results don’t support your hypothesis)
6. Respect Intellectual Property
Use images, videos, music legally:
- Get permission
- Use royalty-free sources
- Cite creators
7. Ethical Use of AI Tools
AI tools (ChatGPT, etc.) are new area.
Kenyan university policies vary:
- Some ban AI for assignments completely
- Some allow AI for brainstorming, but not writing
- Some require disclosure if AI used
Check your university’s policy.
If allowed, use ethically:
- Don’t submit AI-generated text as your own
- Use AI for ideas, then write yourself
- Cite AI if you quote it (APA 7th has guidance)
- Proofread AI output (often inaccurate)
AI is tool, not replacement for thinking.
What to Do If Accused of Plagiarism
If lecturer contacts you about plagiarism:
1. Stay Calm
Don’t panic—may be misunderstanding.
2. Review the Evidence
Ask to see:
- What parts are flagged
- Similarity report (Turnitin)
- Specific sources matched
Sometimes: High similarity from reference list, common phrases, or your own previous work (may be explainable).
3. Explain
If genuine mistake:
- Admit error
- Explain what happened (forgot citation, poor paraphrasing)
- Show you understand how to fix it
If false accusation:
- Provide evidence (your notes, drafts, sources)
- Explain your process
Most lecturers distinguish intentional theft from poor citation skills (first offense may be warning + resubmit).
4. Learn and Improve
If found guilty:
- Accept responsibility
- Learn proper citation
- Don’t repeat mistake
Future assignments: Triple-check citations.
5. Know Your Rights
University has procedures (appeals process if you believe decision is unfair).
Read: Your university’s academic integrity policy.
Case Studies (Fictional, but Realistic)
Case 1: The Copy-Paster
Mary has 5 assignments due same week. Stressed, she copies large chunks from online articles into her essay, changing a few words, no citations.
Result: Turnitin flags 68% similarity. Lecturer confronts her. She admits to rushing, didn’t understand citations.
Consequence: Zero on assignment, required to attend academic integrity workshop, placed on probation. Second offense = suspension.
Lesson: Start assignments early, cite properly.
Case 2: The Group Work Misunderstanding
John and Peter discuss their individual essays on corruption, share sources. John writes his essay, Peter copies John’s structure and arguments (with different wording).
Result: Lecturer notices essays are suspiciously similar (same examples, order of points, even similar phrasing).
Consequence: Both accused of collusion. John didn’t intend to help Peter cheat, but sharing too much caused problem. Both get reduced grades, warned.
Lesson: Be careful how much you share for individual assignments.
Case 3: The AI Reliance
Susan uses ChatGPT to write entire essay on CBC, submits it with minor edits.
Result: Lecturer notices generic content, lack of Kenya-specific depth, unusual phrasing. Uses AI detector—flags as AI-generated. Susan’s previous work was different style.
Consequence: Zero on assignment, called to meeting, violation of university’s AI policy.
Lesson: Don’t outsource thinking to AI. If AI allowed, use as tool, not ghostwriter.
Cultural Context in Kenya
Some students come from educational systems where:
- Memorization and repetition were valued
- Collaboration was encouraged
- Citing every source wasn’t emphasized
University is different:
- Critical thinking over memorization
- Individual work unless specified
- Rigorous citation required
Adjustment takes time—seek help, attend workshops, ask questions.
No shame in learning citation rules—everyone started somewhere.
University Resources
Most Kenyan universities offer:
1. Academic Integrity Workshops
Topics:
- What plagiarism is
- How to cite
- Paraphrasing skills
Attend: Especially in first year.
2. Writing Centers
Services:
- Review drafts
- Citation help
- Plagiarism prevention
Free for students.
3. Library Workshops
Topics:
- Research skills
- Citation management (Zotero, Mendeley)
- Finding credible sources
4. Online Resources
University websites often have:
- Academic integrity policies
- Citation guides
- Turnitin tutorials
Use them.
Long-Term Benefits of Academic Integrity
Practicing honesty now builds:
1. Research skills: Finding, evaluating, synthesizing sources
2. Writing skills: Paraphrasing, analysis, argumentation
3. Critical thinking: Engaging with ideas, not just copying
4. Professional ethics: Integrity in workplace
5. Confidence: Your degree is truly earned
6. Reputation: Known as honest, reliable person
Shortcuts now = weakness later. Invest in learning properly.
Checklist: Submitting Plagiarism-Free Work
Before submitting assignment, ask:
✅ Have I cited every source (quotes, paraphrases, data)? ✅ Are all direct quotes in quotation marks? ✅ Have I paraphrased properly (not just changed a few words)? ✅ Is my reference list complete and correctly formatted? ✅ Did I write this myself (no contract cheating, excessive AI use)? ✅ Have I run it through plagiarism checker? (Similarity less than 20%) ✅ Is my own analysis dominant (not just stringing together quotes)? ✅ Did I follow the assignment guidelines (individual vs. group)? ✅ Have I proofread for citation errors? ✅ Am I confident this work represents my own understanding and effort?
If all yes: Submit confidently, knowing you’ve maintained integrity.
Final Thoughts
Plagiarism destroys:
- Your education (you don’t learn)
- Your reputation (marks your academic/professional record)
- Your degree (can be revoked)
Academic integrity builds:
- Real knowledge and skills
- Self-respect
- Credibility
- Foundation for successful career
Kenyan universities take plagiarism seriously—don’t risk it.
Learn to cite properly, start assignments early, develop your own ideas, and ask for help when needed.
Your degree should represent your achievements, not stolen work. Maintain integrity, and you’ll graduate with pride, knowing you truly earned your education.
Integrity is not just a university requirement—it’s a life principle. Start practicing it today, and it will serve you throughout your career and life. Good luck, and stay honest!