Many cultural attitudes are at work in our students' perceptions of academic honesty. We've reviewed many articles on the topic and have chosen the ones below to highlight the vast literature on the subject. Those interested in finding or reading more on the subject can contact the library reference desk by phone at (253) 931-6480.
Song-Turner, Helen. "Plagiarism: Academic Dishonesty or 'blind spot' of Multicultural Education?" Australian University Review 50:2 (2008): ERIC. Web. 20 Feb. 2012.
Abstract One of the issues facing universities operating in a range of market situations and contexts is that of plagiarism. Different universities have taken different approaches in dealing with this issue. In an Australian university context, this issue is of particular concern, given the large numbers of overseas students studying in Australia, and offshore in Australian administered programmes such as in China and India. It is also an issue in a climate where students increasingly see themselves as consumers with increased rights, power, status and legal standing (Onsman, 2008). Students from a number of countries were interviewed for this paper, to identify their own views about plagiarism. The study found that there were several reasons why students tended to plagiaries and these included challenges of language, skill and respect for 'the foreign expert'. What emerges from this paper is a complex and at times confusing web of perceptions and attitudes towards plagiarism. These pose a significant set of challenges for foreign universities developing and delivering programmes in a range of markets, particularly in locations such as Australia, where the importance and value of attracting, supporting - and, indeed, understanding - foreign students, has tended to underpin many university marketing efforts.
DeVoss, Danielle and Annette Rosati. "It Wasn't Me, Was It?" Computers and Composition 19 (2002). Web. 20 Feb. 2012
(This article is available through interlibrary loan. You can make ILL requests using the interlibrary loan request form)
This article does a great job describing some reasons students plagiarize. It addresses complications of the vast amount of information currently accessible by students. It also includes some excellent tips on teaching students how to find, evaluate, and cite source material.
