Students often ask us what referencing is and how to go about it. Referencing is simply about acknowledging the sources of information you use. If you use a direct quote or someone else's ideas, you need to reference it. Plagiarism and copyright violation are considered academic misconduct in TAFE QLD, and there are penalties for offences. Southbank Institute's Plagiarism & Copyright Policy gives a good introduction to these issues.There are many different referencing styles. It's best to check with your teacher which style they expect you to use. Generally, the Harvard system is used in TAFE. James Cook University has a really helpful Harvard Referencing Guide. SkillsTech Australia , the lead TAFE institute in trade and technical training, also have useful information on The Harvard Referencing System. You can download and print their PDF version here.
Sometimes students worry that referencing reveals they have no ideas of their own. This is a simple misconception. Referencing actually enhances your academic work. It shows you have read widely to inform your opinion and your ideas are based on the current school of thought in the professional arena. So there you have it. Referencing demystified!
Note: Image courtesy of Queen Margaret Univeristy, Edinburgh
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2 comments:
I am an online student and I have never referenced anything before. Is there someone at TAFE who I can send my assignment to so that they can check my referencing before I send it in? I have had a go, but I am not sure if it is right.
Thanks for your enquiry. I would probably approach your referencing question like this:
(1) Speak to your teacher and make sure you're using the right referencing style. Hopefully your teacher can answer your questions!
(2) Contact the Learning Support Unit on campus in Cairns who can work out the best way to look at your work (email, fax etc) and can provide direction and feedback.
You can contact Learning Support by ringing the TAFE on 1300 656 959 or by emailing info.tnqit@deta.qld.gov.au
Make sure you address your enquiry to Learning Support so it gets to the right people on campus!
Good luck :)
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