Overview
Turnitin is an originality feedback tool used to facilitate the submission of original writing by students. Turnitin similarity detection works by comparing the text of a submitted assignment to other written work, including published material and past student submissions stored in Turnitin’s database. Students and instructors can view a Similarity Report to review text that is flagged as being similar to, or matching other sources.
Primary Benefits
- Allows instructors to check for possible instances of plagiarized or unoriginal text in a student’s submission.
- Gives students the opportunity to review their Similarity Report and make improvements to their writing.
Pricing
Turnitin is paid for by the University. It is available to instructors and students at no cost.
Getting Started
Turnitin is available for all courses on Bruin Learn. Instructors can create a Turnitin assignment by:
- Creating a new assignment by clicking “Assignments” in the left-hand course navigation, then the “+ Assignment” button.
- In the assignment settings under the “Plagiarism Review” section, select “Turnitin-BruinLearn”.
Best Practices for Using Turnitin in Your Course
Before using Turnitin for a course, there are a few measures instructors can take to better leverage the tool and maximize student success.
Inform your students
- Avoid making assumptions about students’ understanding of plagiarism. By educating students on plagiarism, how to prevent it, and the importance of academic integrity, you help prevent unintentional plagiarism and better prepare students.
- Let your students know you plan on using Turnitin, and what you plan on measuring with the tool.
Be Aware of Campus Resources
- Familiarize yourself with UCLA institutional and departmental policies regarding academic misconduct and plagiarism. Plagiarism and Student Copyright.
- Know where to report suspected cases of academic dishonesty
Using Turnitin with Your Assignments
- Turnitin is integrated with Bruin Learn. See this guide on enabling Turnitin for a Bruin Learn assignment.
- Accessing the Similarity Report
- Understanding the Similarity Report
