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This information is from the T1 2021 DUSA Advocacy Academic Integrity Awareness Campaign.
Studying together can be a great way to learn. But beware of the line between collaborating and colluding. Helping each other with exam study notes could lead to you and your friend writing the same answers in an online or open-book exam. This can be considered collusion and you could receive an academic integrity allegation, even if you are just trying to help each other. Don’t let this be you!
Make sure you don’t share your notes with other students or create study notes together. Only use your own study notes and ensure that they are clearly referenced.
Open book exams allow you to refer to study notes and other reference material during an exam. It can be a relief to not have to remember everything! However, be sure to summarise, paraphrase, quote and reference this material as you go. Since online open book exams were introduced in T1 2020, the DUSA Advocates have supported quite a few students who received allegations of plagiarism in their online open book exams.
Read over your exam instructions, develop clearly referenced study notes and avoid copying and pasting in a rush.
Oh no! You’re in the middle of your exam and suddenly, your computer freezes. You rush to restart your computer only to discover that your exam has been lost! Stress starts to mount, and you have no idea what to do.
First, and foremost, try not to panic, it’s impossible to plan for everything. Next, contact Deakin IT Help Desk and submit a ticket. If you are unable to retrieve your lost exam, you could consider applying for Special Consideration using the ticket. We can help you with this!
Exam time can be stressful, and you may be completing many assessment tasks at the same time. It is extremely important that you double check your exam file before submitting to ensure it is the correct and fully completed file.
If you do happen to realise you have submitted the wrong file, contact your Unit Chair straight away to alert them of this and don’t edit your completed exam file after the due date.
Make sure your files are clearly named with something that distinguishes each unit and assessment task. You can thank us later!
Online exams are becoming the new norm. It’s not always easy to find a quiet, private place with a decent internet connection where you can complete your exam. Noisy housemates or siblings, overly affectionate pets and glitchy internet can make for a challenging experience!
Plan ahead so you have a private space.
If you are sitting your exam in the same home or location as a classmate, make sure you sit in a separate area where you can’t see or share each other’s answers. If you share answers, you could receive a collusion allegation. So make sure you complete your exams separately and then celebrate together when you’re finished!
We help students with many inquiries. If you experience an issue preparing, during or after your exam – please contact DUSA Advocacy for support, that’s why we’re here! We will work with you to assess your situation and discuss possible courses of action.
If you are struggling, reach out to your Unit Chair and let them know. Consider accessing Study Support for help and Deakin Counselling for psychological support (these are both free).
You may be eligible for special consideration if circumstances beyond your control prevent you from undertaking or completing your exam at the scheduled time. Find out more here, and contact DUSA Advocacy if you would like support submitting your application.
Not sure where to start? If you would like to speak to someone about your specific circumstances, please feel free to contact our free Student Advocacy and Support Service. We are here to help and support students and our experienced and friendly team can help you develop a plan for your current and future studies. You can complete our online contact form or give us a call on (03) 9246 8615.
