Tips for students

As well as outlining the academic and non academic expectations of the student community, the Code of Student Conduct ensures all MR students are treated consistently and objectively when facing conduct concerns. Mount Royal has a responsibility to define standards of student behavior and to provide reasonable expectations for student discipline with regard to conduct that jeopardizes the functioning of academic and non-academic activities. It is also the obligation of the Mount Royal to protect the safety, rights and/ or property of its members or visitors.

content_PairWalking

With the pursuit of learning comes the expectation that individuals will develop high standards of personal conduct. Students have an obligation to make legal and responsible decisions concerning their conduct, and Mount Royal has an expectation that students uphold the values attached to academic integrity and that students will conduct themselves as reasonable, respectful adults.

  • Educate yourself on institutional & faculty policies regarding: Code of Student Conduct, academic integrity (plagiarism, cheating, acceptable formats of writing — APA, MLA etc.), discuss with your instructors what is considered acceptable & unacceptable — i.e. number of un-cited words…, collaborative work, acceptable/unacceptable technologies in class, expectations during exams including leaving the room, tools (tech), seating etc.
  • When in doubt ask be sure you are clear about what the expectations of your instructors are — in every class — every semester. You will receive a ‘course outline/syllabus’ at the beginning of each semester in each class you take. If you do not receive one, ask your instructor why. This outline should include all information regarding this class including the weight of each assignment, exam, presentation or class participation. Any dos/don’ts that the instructor expects from you should be in this outline. You may find that different instructors expect you to do different things; it is your responsibility to know what each instructor expects, and if you don’t, it is your responsibility to find out. Don’t assume that every class has the same rules — they don’t.
  • Before you use your phone, i-pod, calculator or any technical device find out what is or is not permitted in each class.
  • Does the instructor have any policy on attendance, working collaboratively with a fellow classmate, citing work (i.e. required format APA, MLA etc.), late submission of assignments.
  • Know what your instructor’s expectations are with regard to writing exams well ahead of the exam time to avoid any surprises.

Student Frequently Asked Questions

Rights & responsibilities

Student rights:

  • To have classroom standards for both academic dishonesty and non-academic misconduct communicated in a clear and unambiguous manner.
  • To have consequences for an alleged breach of academic dishonesty or non-academic misconduct communicated in a clear and unambiguous manner.
  • To expect classroom standards to be applied consistently and equitably.
  • To be presumed not to have committed academic dishonesty or non-academic misconduct until impartial and unbiased decision-makers have established, on a balance of probabilities that his or her commission of the misconduct has occurred.
  • To have his or her case adjudicated within a reasonable time. This includes, but is not restricted to, sufficient notice of the allegation, relevant and reasonable disclosure of the case of the complainant, reasonable notice of the time, place and nature of any hearing, reasonable opportunity to respond to any allegations and to be advised in writing of the decision, its basis and any sanctions arrived at under this Code.
  • As appropriate, to be informed of and have access to the services of the Students’ Association of Mount Royal University (SAMRU). This includes having a designated SAMRU representative accompany him/her to a hearing or appeal, if requested.
  • In the case of students for whom SAMRU representation is not mandated (e.g., credit-free students), to choose an individual to accompany him/her.
  • To choose whether or not to provide evidence and/or to be a witness in the case against him/herself.
  • In any hearing to present evidence, to call his or her own witnesses and to personally question any witnesses called.
  • To have access to appeal procedures under this Code.

Student responsibilities:

  • To uphold the values attached to academic integrity and develop academic skills and practices as necessary.
  • To be aware of classroom standards for both academic and non-academic conduct.
  • To familiarize themselves with this Code and govern themselves in accordance with it and all other policies, rules and regulations of Mount Royal.

Student/instructor meeting

Your instructor has asked you to meet with him/her to discuss work that you have submitted:

  1. Before you meet with your instructor, access the services of the MR Students’ Association located on the 2nd floor of Wyckham House. The Student Association (SA) is available to provide students with advice and will be sure you understand what to can expect throughout this process. An SA representative will be available to attend the meeting with you if you choose.
  2. Carefully review Rights & Responsibilities. If you have any questions regarding your rights as a student, speak with your SA representative or contact the OSC.
  3. Instructors acknowledge that students have busy schedules; however, it is in your best interest to try to arrange a time to meet with your instructor as soon as possible and attempt to resolve the issue.
  4. You can expect to be treated with respect, likewise treat your instructor with respect and professionalism.
  5. Understandably you may be feeling stressed and upset; keep in mind that all of the rights afforded to students at MR will be afforded to you, and you will have a chance to explain your side of the story.
  6. Remember you are not being singled out. As a member of faculty your instructor is obligated to report any academic or non academic misconduct to the OSC.
  7. The goal of your instructors and of Office of Student Conduct is to support your learning from this experience so the same mistake will not be repeated.

Other resources

Guide to Avoiding Plagiarism

Breeze Presentation on Avoiding Plagiarism

 

sb_SAMRC_wt
     
 
4825 Mount Royal Gate SW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T3E 6K6 | 403.440.6111      © Copyright 2009 Mount Royal University