Academic ethics for students
Academic ethics and good scientific practice
Tampere University adheres to the principles of good scientific practice and academic integrity that are based on national legislation, the guidelines issued by the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity titled Responsible conduct of research and the procedure for handling allegations of misconduct in Finland, and the Degree Regulations and Guidelines for Student Assessment of the University. These principles apply to all coursework, examinations, theses and research activities. Based on the above, the university has implemented guidelines for academic ethics and procedures for handling allegations of misconduct at Tampere University.
Guidelines for academic ethics in studies
During their studies, students learn how to apply the principles of good scientific practice and academic integrity. Students are responsible for their learning and for informing themselves about relevant policies and procedures. Students are advised to contact their teachers or thesis supervisor if they are unsure about anything relating to good scientific practice or academic integrity. The further students progress in their studies , the more familiar they are expected to be with these principles.
The university provides training in good scientific practice and the supervision of students to the members of our teaching and research staff.
Good study practices entail the following:
- understanding one’s position as a member of the university community and striving towards the fair and equal treatment of fellow members of the community;
- taking responsibility for one’s own studies;
- respecting the work of other people;
- observing established ethical principles and practices in research;
- securing shared resources for one’s own use responsibly;
- acting responsibly in groups and other forms of collaboration;
- completing assignments within set time limits; and
- informing others about unforeseen circumstances that affect them.
Each member of the university community must act in an honest, fair and responsible manner and respect the work and achievements of others. Each member of the university community must familiarize themselves with the guidelines for good scientific and study practices and adhere to them. It is the duty of all members of the community to ensure that any course of action they are about to undertake is appropriate and ethically sound.
The duties of the teaching staff include supporting and furthering the students’ engagement in studying, learning and academic growth by employing varied teaching methods that take into account the skills and abilities of diverse types of learners and by providing feedback that encourages students to learn continuously. Every teacher provides study-related guidance and counselling. Students must be treated in a fair, equal, encouraging and respectful manner. Teachers must also take part in the development of their own competence and that of their work community.
As for students, their responsibilities include adhering to university rules and guidelines and keeping up with electronic communications from the university. Students should familiarize themselves with ethical guidelines for studying and act accordingly. A student is responsible for acquiring the necessary knowledge for their studies. If a student cannot attend a class or arrives late, they are obligated to acquire the missing information without burdening others. Proper time management is essential to meet deadlines for assignments that need assessment.
The university emphasizes teaching and learning good study practices and good scientific practices to prevent cheating and negligence. Academic misconduct is defined in the guidelines for processing of violations of academic ethics guidelines.