Philippine E-Journals

Exploring the Practices and Challenges of Student Researchers in Addressing Plagiarized Contents: Basis for Information Literacy Program

Jadz Psyche Arnoco | GENESIS B. NAPARAN

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

Librarians have a unique role in academic institutions in addressing plagiarized content among student researchers since librarians are gatekeepers of information that leads to bringing information literacy programs into the curriculum. With that, the researchers aimed to explore the practices and challenges of student researchers in addressing plagiarized content as the basis for an information literacy program. Specifically, this study aims to determine the practices in reviewing the literature, challenges in addressing plagiarized content, and their coping strategies. This study used a qualitative method. It was conducted at the academic institution located in the municipality of Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte. The participants of this study were 18 fourth-year students who recently passed their final defense on their research subject and were selected purposively. The results found that the students were able to analyze the abstract of literature and anchor themes based on the problem of the study. However, lack of literature comprehension, limited available related studies, and pressure to meet deadlines marked the challenges they encountered. This hindrance stops them from brainstorming unique thoughts. Meanwhile, they were able to cope with the challenges by scanning more references, repetitive reading, and utilizing paraphrasing tools and plagiarism checkers. Thus, librarians must conduct an information literacy program to address plagiarized content in research.