<p>Here is the story, last week in a seminar, our group was writing out a solution to a problem.</p>
<p>Unfortunately one of the group members weren't present and I wrote his name down for submission. </p>
<p>Now the TA today emailed one of my friends and asked him how many people were in the group, so my friend phoned me and told me what happened and told me that he has to tell him the truth (and I agree) and we were afraid of what's going to happen. And my friend told me that I have to take responsibility because in the end, I wrote the missing group member's name down. </p>
<p>So basically I am scared that I might get an F for dishonesty or our whole group will get zero because I made such a careless and thoughtless mistake. </p>
<p>Any ideas or comments on what is the best course of action? I did it out of kindness, but I seriously didn't expect it to come back and bite me like this.</p>
<p>Be honest; speak with the TA and explain that that person was part of your group you wrote his name down out of habit and didn’t mean anything by it.
At best, you’ll get a slap on the wrist; at worst, you (or him, or all of you) might fail that one assignment, but you’ll learn to be more careful in the future.</p>
<p>I think it kind of depends. If was a single group assignment of which all members were suppose to sign. I don’t think its a big deal. But if it was individual parts in which each member was suppose to do his part, sign it, and turn it in. If such is the case, then it could be construed as doing someone else’s homework, which is a no.no. Having said all that, the group dynamic because of mandatory collusion should be held to a lesser standard. Anyway, if you believe you did no wrong, fight over it. Teachers aren’t above error.</p>
<p>First, I understand where you’re coming from in terms of the situation being scary. You are unsure of how your professor/TA might react and of any potential repurcussions. But, the worst thing that could happen is that you allow fear to lead to a second - and possibly even more egregious - wrongdoing, which would be to lie as a cover-up or way of protecting yourself. </p>
<p>If you are caught for the second wrongdoing, then that would be two rather than just one potential strike against you. And things could be worse.</p>
<p>Be brave and do what’s right, OP. This should matter more, in and of itself, than whatever repurcussions the faculty might give. </p>
<p>But, having said that, I would think that such an error is likely forgivable. But, still, do be honest about things. It will build your character as you learn from it!</p>
<p>Generally, professors are required to report all instances of academic misconduct to the dean of students. Doesn’t mean there’s going to be any further punishment. You might be asked to respond - acknowledge your error, accept responsibility and explain how you intend to learn from the experience. Check with your university’s office of student affairs or similar program - you may be able to speak with someone who can advise/counsel you on how to proceed.</p>
<p>Find out if your transcript will be marked with an academic dishonesty notification, and if so, find out if there’s a way to appeal it. Often, first-time misconduct can be treated fairly leniently if you express yourself properly.</p>
<p>Unless it’s on the transcript, it won’t be on anything seen by graduate schools. Of course, you may be asked on applications to disclose instances of academic misconduct, which you should of course answer honestly.</p>