The York University Online Fall B 2025 session begins on 10/20/25! Apply here by 10/15/25.
Addressing issues of suspected plagiarism and AI-generated content is of paramount importance in maintaining academic integrity and upholding the standards of York University. In an era where information is easily accessible and technology allows for the generation of sophisticated content, educators play a crucial role in guiding students towards ethical research and originality. When confronted with instances of suspected plagiarism or AI-generated work, York University professors have several strategies at their disposal:
Faculty should strive to handle such situations directly within their classroom, fostering a learning environment that encourages honest engagement and learning from mistakes. Similar to any suspected cheating, suspected plagiarism or AI-generated content should first be handled by the faculty within the classroom.
Moreover, if further verification is required to confirm suspected AI misuse, it is recommended to submit the assignment for a secondary review to authenticate the presence of AI-generated text. Please email jwiley@york.edu or jaleinen@york.edu to request a second evaluation.
A suspected incident can be reported to the Provost's Office as a classroom infraction and documented in the student's record. In more serious cases, it becomes essential to report the issue to the Provost's Office, ensuring appropriate measures are taken to safeguard academic integrity across the institution.
By setting clear expectations and addressing issues like plagiarism or AI-generated work, York University faculty help keep our academic community fair and trustworthy. These conversations with students underscore the importance of completing one's work and respecting intellectual property. In the process, professors encourage responsibility, build integrity, and shape a culture where originality and scholarly excellence thrive.