Academic Misconduct Policy

The purpose of this policy is to promote a fair learning environment at DCU International Academy. Academic integrity requires honesty, fairness, respect and responsibility in all learning activities, including coursework, assessments, examinations and classroom participation.

This policy clarifies what is expected of students and staff and ensures that everyone involved in teaching and assessing English language programmes acts responsibly.

The Academic Integrity Policy applies to, but is not limited to:

• Placement Tests
• Weekly Tests
• Level Progress Tests
• Pre-Sessional Exams
• External Exams (e.g. IELTS, Cambridge)
• Coursework and homework
• Final IFY exams – Semester 1 and Summer exams

Students are expected to:

• Act honestly and with integrity in all academic work at DCU IA.
• Reference any work, ideas or words that come from external sources.
• Complete tasks, assignments and assessments independently unless clearly advised that support or Generative AI (GenAI) tools are permitted.
• Where GenAI use is permitted, clearly explain and reference how it was used, for example for grammar checking or drafting.
• Speak to a staff member if unsure about GenAI or whether its use is permitted.

Staff are expected to:

• Act honestly and with integrity in all matters related to their work at DCU IA.
• Complete duties, tasks, assessments and work without using GenAI unless explicit permission has been given.
• Where GenAI is used, clearly reference the tool and explain how it was used, for example for feedback or lesson planning.
• Ensure students understand how to correctly reference and acknowledge the work of others.
• Be aware of the risks associated with online cheating or homework-help websites and communicate these risks clearly to students.
• Understand the consequences and sanctions that may apply where cheating in an assessment is proven.

DCU IA engages external assessors to review assessment processes and outcomes as part of its commitment to ensuring fairness, consistency and the maintenance of academic standards.

Where a student is found to have breached academic integrity requirements, the following process will apply:

Stage 1: Where there is reasonable doubt, the student will receive a formal written warning and will be asked to resit the test.

Stage 2: If the student appeals the warning or requirement to resit, a formal panel will be established consisting of the Academic Manager, School Coordinator and an independent party, such as the Exam Manager.

In the case of further offences, consequences may extend to suspension or withdrawal of enrolment.

Teachers must report suspected breaches of academic integrity to the Academic Manager using the Academic Integrity Misconduct Form.

Students may appeal by replying to the Academic Manager’s email within five working days.

All incidents and appeals will be reviewed by a panel consisting of the Academic Manager, School Coordinator and an independent party.