STUDENTS AWARENESS OF COPYRIGHT AND PLAGIARISM IN THE DIGITAL AGE: A STUDY OF FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC BAUCHI

ABSTRACT This study, titled “Student Awareness of Copyright and Plagiarism in the Digital Age: A Study of Federal Polytechnic Bauchi,” examined students’ awareness, attitudes, and factors influencing engagement in plagiarism and copyright infringement. The objectives were to assess the level of awareness of copyright laws and plagiarism policies, determine students’ attitudes toward intellectual property rights, and identify factors influencing unethical academic practices. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised 10,413 students of the Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, from which 100 respondents were selected. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed with tables and charts. Findings revealed that most students (42% strongly agreed; 38% agreed) recognised plagiarism as a serious academic offence, though only 28% strongly agreed and 30% agreed that they were familiar with institutional plagiarism policies. This indicates good conceptual awareness but limited knowledge of institutional frameworks. Students generally showed positive attitudes toward academic honesty, though some neutral responses suggested inconsistency in ethical behaviour. Major factors promoting plagiarism included pressure to achieve high grades, lack of awareness of plagiarism policies, and easy access to online materials. The study concluded that while students demonstrate moderate to high awareness of plagiarism and copyright issues, inadequate institutional orientation and academic pressure contribute to misconduct. It recommends enhanced awareness campaigns, inclusion of plagiarism education in curricula, and stronger enforcement of academic integrity policies.