.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Honor Pledge Task Force?
The Honor Pledge Task Force is a student organization dedicated to promoting a culture of academic success and integrity on Purdue’s campus. We were formed to support Purdue’s vision and focus on creating the best educational opportunities possible for students here. Our organization seeks to help students succeed with academic integrity and virtue. We consider having a foundation in being academically honest to be instrumental to your future career. The official Purdue Honor Pledge states, “As a Boilermaker pursuing academic excellence, I pledge to be honest and true in all that I do. Accountable together - We are Purdue.” Purdue considers the pledge to be one of the fundamental tenets to a students’ experience at the university. The HPTF serves as an educational resource for students to understand what academic honesty is and how to incorporate that ideal into their daily lives across campus. If a student has a concern about whether a specific choice constitutes academic dishonesty, we are here to help you process the situation and answer any questions you may have.
Why was the Honor Pledge Task Force started?
Academic dishonesty was a growing, widespread issue across college campuses and President Daniels didn’t want that to be the case at Purdue. He tasked a select few undergraduate and graduate students with creating an organization that could encourage students to incorporate academic honesty into their academic life at Purdue as well as future careers they attain after their time at the university.
How do I sign the Honor Pledge?
The Honor Pledge is not a binding contract or agreement with the university faculty. Instead, it is a commitment to yourself that you will hold yourself to a higher standard. This requires holding yourself and others accountable, doing your own work, and following university policies inside and outside the classroom. If you are interested, contact the HPTF to sign the Honor Pledge. You can also find it on the front of many exams, and you are required to sign it before opening the test so professors can hold you accountable by referencing your signature on the pledge if you are found violating a university academic honesty policy.
What do I do if my professors have different expectations about academic integrity?
There are basic expectations for academic integrity, such as citing sources and collaborating on projects properly. Classes often do differ in what they ask of their students. The best way to ensure you are familiar with the course policies is to read the syllabus. Another great step would be to seek clarification from the instructor if there still is any uncertainty. These two measures are simple ways to understand what is expected from a professor.
What is the best way to communicate with professors and TA’s about these questions?
Your instructors want you to succeed and are generally willing to answer any questions about their course. If you need further clarification after reading the syllabus, try to contact your instructor by approaching them in person or email. Email generally is the most efficient way due to time restrictions.
