University student complaints rise by 20%

[14.06.2012]

Complaints from students have increased by 20 per cent across British universities, according to the Office of the Independent Adjudicator.

Over 1,600 complaints were handled by the body over the last year, with the number from students accused of plagiarism doubling.

Students are expected to become even more discerning as higher education consumers over the coming years, with the rise in tuition fees.

Adjudicator Rob Behrens anticipates a rise in complaints this autumn, when fees rise.

There have already been widespread calls for universities to do more to keep students informed about their responsibilities, particularly rules on plagiarism.

Speaking to the BBC, National Union of Students Vice-President Pete Mercer explained: "For new students, particularly those coming from abroad, what constitutes plagiarism can vary and proper training and picking up minor infractions early on can help students to know exactly what is expected of them."

Greater access to essays online is believed to have exacerbated existing plagiarism problems.

Posted by Tony Thomas