Final answer:
Professor Wilson's stance on plagiarism is justified as it emphasizes the importance of academic integrity, regardless of her past actions. Students should avoid plagiarism by doing their work, citing sources, and understanding what constitutes academic dishonesty, as the consequences can be severe.
Step-by-step explanation:
Professor Wilson's argument against plagiarism is a stand for maintaining academic integrity in the education system, which is crucial for preserving the value of academic achievements and fostering an environment of trust. These values are paramount in academia because without them, the educational process can be compromised, leading to a decrease in the overall quality of education. The issue of whether Professor Wilson plagiarized in the past does not invalidate the importance of academic integrity nor does it provide a justification for students to engage in such behavior. It is important for students to understand that plagiarism is not just about stealing someone's work; it is also about failing to contribute to the ongoing scholarly conversation with original thoughts and insights.
To avoid plagiarism, students are encouraged to do their own work, seek help when needed, and properly cite all sources. Carelessness in note-taking and drafting papers can lead to unintentional plagiarism, but understanding and preventing it is part of a student's responsibility. Plagiarism includes actions such as submitting work written by someone else, copying content without giving proper credit, and failing to properly paraphrase. The consequences of plagiarism can include academic penalties and damage to one's reputation, creating a lasting negative impact on a student's career.