Knowledge and Attitudes of Plagiarism among Libyan EFL MA Students, Faculty of Languages, University of Tripoli

Abstract

This research study endeavors to explore Libyan EFL Masters’ students’ knowledge and attitudes towards plagiarism. An electronic survey questionnaire is used for data collection while descriptive statistics of percentages is employed to calculate the obtained data. 30 Libyan EFL Masters’ students respond to the survey questions. The study seeks to ascertain students’ knowledge of plagiarism, reasons for committing plagiarism, and practical procedures to make students produce and submit plagiarism-free research studies.  Results show that respondents have a high-level of awareness towards plagiarism as an unethical act that must be condemned. However, they consider the lack of academic writing skills as the main reason of students' plagiarism. Finally, the study presents some practical procedures to combat plagiarism