Understanding Academic Integrity at ISI Dublin

At ISI Dublin, we want you to succeed, grow your confidence, and feel proud of the English language skills you build here.
To make sure your progress is real and fair, we practice Academic Integrity. This simply means doing your own work honestly, respectably, and truthfully. It is the foundation of your learning journey.

What is Academic Misconduct? (The Red Lines)

Sometimes, students make mistakes because they do not fully understand what is allowed. To keep things clear, here are the three main things you must avoid in all classwork, tests, and homework:
  1. Plagiarism (Copying)
    Plagiarism is taking someone else’s words, ideas, or writing and pretending they are your own without giving credit to the original creator.
    Examples: Copying paragraphs from a website for your essay, using a classmate’s homework, or copying word-for-word from a textbook without noting where you found it.
  2. Cheating in Exams
    Cheating is using unapproved help or shortcuts to get a better grade on an exam.
    Examples: Looking at your phone during a progress test, bringing hidden notes into the classroom, or looking at another student’s answer sheet.
  3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Misuse
    Generative AI tools (like ChatGPT) can be helpful study assistants for practicing vocabulary or brainstorming. However, using them to do your work for you is a serious breach of integrity.
    * What is NOT allowed: Having an AI write your homework essays, translation tasks, or projects for you. If you submit AI-generated text as your own writing, teachers cannot accurately assess your actual English level or help you improve.

Why Does Academic Integrity Matter for Your English?

  • Real Language Growth: The only way to improve your English is by making mistakes and learning from them. If you copy or use AI, you block your own progress.
  • University & Employment Readiness: If you plan to study at an Irish Higher Education Institution or work in Dublin, you will be held to very strict academic standards. Building honest habits now prepares you for your future career.
  • Fairness: Every student deserves a fair learning environment. Upholding these standards ensures everyone’s hard work is respected equally.

How to Get Help

If you are struggling with an assignment, running out of time, or unsure how to reference a source, do not panic and do not cheat. We are here to support you!
  • Talk to Your Teacher: Let them know if you are finding a task too difficult. They can give you extra guidance or explain how to paraphrase properly.
  • Ask Academic Management: You can book a one-to-one support session with our academic team to get advice on study skills, exam preparation, and academic writing.

Our Commitment

ISI Dublin is a community built on mutual respect and trust. By submitting your own authentic work, you ensure that your certificates, grades, and language skills are a true reflection of your dedication!