Still, on those occasions when you—as a representative of a Maricopa Community College—have the opportunity to talk about any of the degree or certificate programs that are offered, it would be a good idea to keep in mind the following:

• In written statements or oral presentations that purport to present facts, be careful to verify those facts. The misrepresentation regulations outlaw false or erroneous statements, even if those false or erroneous statements are made unintentionally. For example, in advertisements or other presentations that quote government statistics on the earning potential for a trade or profession, double-check that the quoted statistics are accurate. The source material that contains these government statistics should be maintained in case those statistics are questioned.


• Also in both written statements and oral presentations, analyze content to prevent the use of misleading statements, which are one form of misrepresentation. The law says that a misleading statement is one that has the “likelihood or tendency to deceive or confuse”; even a misleading statement made innocently or without the intent to confuse or deceive can subject a school to penalties for misrepresentation. Look at the content for vague or ambiguous statements. Is it possible that the reader or listener might draw the wrong or unintended conclusions from what is being said?