Awareness on the Use of Anti-Plagiarism Software Among Undergraduate Students in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

ABSTRACT
This research investigated the awareness among undergraduate students in Ahmadu Bello University Zaria on the use of anti-plagiarism software. The study formulated five research objectives; to examine the types of plagiarism, level of awareness of the software, level of use of anti-plagiarism software, strategies to improve awareness of use and likely challenges to be faced. The study adopted quantitative research methodology and descriptive cross-sectional survey research design. Population of the study was 1598 undergraduate students of Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. A total of 320 were sufficient sample according to Taro Yamane formula for calculating sample size. Proportionate stratified sampling technique was used for selection of respondents from the six departments. Closed-ended questionnaire was used for data collection. Frequency distribution and simple percentages was used for data analysis. The findings of the study reveals that there was low level of awareness on the use of anti-plagiarism software among the undergraduate students of ABU Zaria. It was discovered that verbatim and paraphrasing plagiarism are the major types of plagiarism known and frequently engage in by the students. The study also reveals several strategies to improve awareness of the software and as well point out challenges that might likely be faced. Based on the findings, the study concludes that the use of anti-plagiarism software is highly paramount to academic integrity. The study recommends among others that there is need to incorporate the use of anti-plagiarism software into the course curricula of undergraduate students.