Plagiarism Detection and Intertextuality Software

Abstract

Software for plagiarism detection was developed in the early 2000s when powerful search engines offered writers opportunities for unattributed copy-and- pasting from other sources. Many algorithms were developed to reveal overlaps between original and source text. Although the software was imperfect, its use has spread across higher education, precipitating intense debates about its application to the teaching of writing. Because of instructors’ fear of false accusation and the effects on students’ anxiety, many educators have eschewed plagiarism detection systems. Others, however, have adopted plagiarism detection for formative and devel- opmental reasons, such as helping students to understand intertextuality and making referencing a manageable skill. This chapter will briefly historicize the effects of the internet on the practice of plagiarism; describe the technology behind digital programs for plagiarism detection and its functional specifications; summarize some of the research on plagiarism detection programs; describe a few of the more popular programs; and conclude with implications. Keywords