Success Story
How Southern Methodist University (SMU) Modernized Plagiarism Detection for the R1 Research Era
The Challenge:
Modernizing Integrity Tools for an R1 Research Institution
SMU faced the growing limitations of a legacy plagiarism detection system that struggled to keep pace with the complex needs of a top-tier research institution. Specifically, the university required a more sophisticated solution capable of accurately scanning source code and multilingual submissions while eliminating the administrative friction of toggling between disparate platforms for grading and feedback.
The Solution:
Copyleaks Integration with Canvas LMS
By transitioning to Copyleaks through their existing Canvas LMS, SMU implemented a solution that combines advanced plagiarism detection with the versatile Assessment Overview Tool. This transition provided the Engineering and Data Science departments with robust code integrity features while simultaneously streamlining the faculty experience by centralizing annotation, commenting, and grading within a single, cost-effective interface.
Background
SMU is a nationally recognized R1 research university located in the heart of Dallas, Texas. Known for its high-tier programs in business, law, engineering, and the arts, SMU fosters an environment of innovation and industry collaboration. Jennifer Mayes, Manager of the Canvas & Instructional Systems team, and Lisa Gines, Instructional Systems Administrator, oversee the digital ecosystem that supports thousands of students and faculty.
The Process
The transition began in 2024 when the Canvas & Instructional Systems team evaluated the market for a platform that offered a seamless fit for their existing infrastructure. After evaluating several platforms, SMU selected Copyleaks due to its compatibility with the university’s Canvas LMS and its ability to support the needs identified during the review process.
A primary driver for the switch was the platform’s superior ability to detect plagiarism in specialized fields. While traditional tools often focus strictly on prose, SMU required a solution that could accurately scan coding assignments and provide detection across multiple languages. The team found that Copyleaks delivered this versatility and accuracy at a price point that represented a significant value upgrade over their previous vendor, Turnitin.
The Impact
The implementation of Copyleaks has streamlined SMU’s academic integrity workflow, providing immediate benefits through a more technologically advanced approach to assessment. A primary driver of this success is the Assessment Overview Tool, which allows instructors to annotate, comment, and grade directly within the interface, significantly reducing administrative steps.
Furthermore, the platform’s ability to scan source code has closed critical gaps for Engineering and Data Science departments, providing the same integrity assurance previously reserved for written essays.
The integration allows plagiarism detection to occur within the Canvas workflow used by instructors.
Faculty have noted that the ability to annotate, comment, and grade within the tool reduces the number of steps in the assessment process.
Looking Forward
As SMU continues to lead in research and teaching innovation, the university expects the platform to continue supporting its academic integrity processes. The institution plans to leverage the platform’s evolving technology features to stay ahead of new challenges in academic integrity. By moving away from legacy systems toward a more agile, feature-rich solution, SMU has ensured that its commitment to excellence is supported by the most advanced tools available.
The goal is to continue fostering a culture of integrity where technology serves as a bridge to deeper learning and more efficient instruction.