Skip to Main Content

Using Information Ethically

This guide will introduce you to the importance of using information ethically in your academic work. We will discuss academic integrity, strategies for avoiding plagiarism, and ethical issues with generative artificial intelligence.

Why We Cite

It is important to remember that if you don't provide acknowledgement when you have used the work of others, it is considered plagiarism and you may be accused of academic misconduct, even if it is unintentional. So let's learn about citing sources.

Why we cite:
  • To give credit and respect to the intellectual property of others
  • To avoid plagiarism
  • To help readers find the sources you've referenced
  • To build on and make connections to previous work
  • To demonstrate that you have an understanding of the previous work on a topic
What we cite:
  • Words you quote
  • Words you paraphrase
  • Words you summarize
  • Ideas (interpretations, opinions, conclusions, etc.)
  • Data
  • Images and illustrations
  • Videos and streaming media
  • Graphs, charts, and tables
  • Social media content
  • AI-generated content

Essentially, if you are in doubt, cite it! Remember that plagiarism is often accidental. The strategies we talked about earlier in this tutorial will help you avoid plagiarism. 

How We Cite

You don't need to memorize all the details about a citation style. You can rely on examples provided in online guides or use RefWorks or database tools to generate citations for you.  

There are several different citations styles, like APA or MLA, so check with your instructor on which style you should use for your assignment. For help with a particular citation style, check out UNC's online guides (click the images to access each guide):

Link to MLA style guideLink to APA style guide

 

 

 

 

Link to AMA style guideLink to Chicago style guide

 

 

 

RefWorks for Citation Help

RefWorks can:
  • Create a bibliography instantly in just about any style (APA, MLA, etc.)
  • Organize your sources.
  • Cite references while you write with plugin.  
To create a RefWorks account:
  • Go to http://refworks.proquest.com and click the "create account" link.
  • Fill in your information making sure to use your @bears.unco.edu or @unco.edu email accounts (you cannot use another account).  
  • You'll receive an email with a link to complete the registration process (check your spam folder if you don't see it).  
RefWorks Video Tutorials

Check out these videos to help you get started using this useful resource.