Accused of an Academic Integrity Violation?
Being contacted about a possible academic integrity violation can be stressful, but it is important to know that you have the right to respond and be heard before any formal decision is made.
Under Section 8.3 of Algoma University’s Disciplinary Regulations on Academic Integrity, your professor is required to email you before they file a Notice of Offence. This email gives you the opportunity to respond to their concerns, either through a meeting or a written explanation.
If you receive such an email, follow these steps:
- This initial email is not a formal charge. It is a chance for you to explain your side of the story before any formal action is taken.
- Carefully review the contents of the email to understand the professor’s concerns and the reason they are considering a Notice of Offence.
You have five (5) business days to respond. Use this time to consider your response carefully.
If you believe you did not commit a violation:
- Prepare a written explanation or talking points for a meeting.
- Include any relevant evidence (e.g., drafts, notes, research records, or communication history) that supports your position.
- Decide how you wish to respond:
- In a meeting
- Through a written email response
You must respond to your professor within five (5) business days of receiving the email.
In your response, you should clearly indicate one of the following:
- That you wish to schedule a meeting with your professor to present your perspective and any evidence that shows you did not commit the violation,
or - That you are providing your written response by email, along with any supporting evidence demonstrating that you did not violate academic integrity principles.
Whichever option you choose, make sure your communication is clear, respectful, and professional. Supporting evidence may include notes, drafts, outlines, research logs, or relevant communication records.
What Happens Next
After reviewing your response, your professor will decide whether to proceed with filing a formal Notice of Offence.
- If they do not file, the matter is closed
- If they do file, you will receive a formal email from the Faculty Dean notifying you of the offence.
You then have the right to appeal the decision within five (5) business days of receiving the email from the Faculty Dean. Appeals are submitted to the Senate Appeals and Academic Standards Committee.
If you need help understanding the process, you can contact the Academic Integrity Office at any time via email or a one-on-one meeting.
You can also reach out to the Algoma University Student Union Ombudsperson at [email protected] for support and confidential advice during this process.