Exam Malpractice: Causes, Consequences & Solutions to Curb Cheating in Schools.
Examination malpractice is an improper or illegal conduct by an examination candidate (examinee) to pass the examination.
While some debate on examination malpractice as a result of inadequate preparation, others believe it is driven by the pressure to achieve high grades. To define examination malpractice, one must understand that exams are designed to take place under a set of standards. When these standards are breached, it is often in the form of one or more forms of malpractice.
As students, we have all been there- the pressure to perform, fear of failure and the temptation to take shortcuts. Examination malpractices have become a rampant issue in public examinations, threatening the education system. In this article we will dive into the causes, consequences, and remedies of this scourge.
TYPES OF EXAMINATION MALPRACTICE
Here are the various forms of exam malpractice This is one of the best-known forms of examination malpractice in numerous countries worldwide, including Nigeria. Impersonation is the act of pretending to be another person with the aim of helping them cheat and pass the exams.External assistance: This vice usually involves exam officers who receive bribes from candidates in exchange for assistance before, during, or after the examinations. These officers can sometimes threaten students, forcing them to part with bribes.
Giraffing: This term is derived from the physical features of the giraffe, particularly its long neck. This malpractice involves a situation in which an examinee cranes their neck to view what their neighbour is writing and copy it. It is among the oldest forms of exam malpractice.
Inscription: This involves inscribing notes on one's body or materials allowed into the exam room. Some of the most common include writing notes on one's palm, tables, examination hall walls, and small pieces of paper.
Collusion: This is the vice that results in what is commonly known as exam leakage. Typically, a candidate collides with an officer of the exam-setting body, allowing them to get a copy of the questions in advance. They then revise the exact questions.
Intimidation/assault: Students sitting their exams can sometimes intimidate or assault the officers invigilating the exams. This can be in brandishing weapons or any other form of assault. The exam officers are then forced to let the candidates carry out their wishes, often some other form of cheating.
CAUSES OF EXAMINATION MALPRACTICE
Examination malpractice can have various negative effects on individuals, educational institutions, and society as a whole. Here are some of the undesirable effects brought about by exam malpractices.Parenting failure: Parenting is, quite often, the beginning of numerous virtues and vices. Parents typically play an integral role in examination malpractice in Nigeria. Some parents have little interest in their children's academic life. When exam time comes around, some of these parents are often at the forefront in facilitating cheating for their children to get good grades.
Pressure to perform: The pressure to excel in public examinations can be overwhelming. Students feel that their future depends on their grades, leading them to resort to unfair means.
A corrupt educational system: One of the most significant aspects to blame is the extent of the rot in the education sector. Today, education is viewed as a business, with some school owners willing to do anything to ensure their institutions come out on top.
Lack of preparation: Poor time management and inadequate preparation can lead to desperation, causing students to cheat.
Inadequate supervision: In some cases, inadequate supervision during examinations can create opportunities for malpractices.
Poor students attitude: Since students are the common factor in all forms of malpractice, they bear the biggest responsibility in the vice. Some students have been known to be lazy and seek any shortcut to good grades that do not involve studying and working hard. Some students do not believe in the tried and tested attributes such as dedication and consistency. As a result of this poor attitude, such students often tend to resort to various forms of examination malpractice.
Environmental factors: Nigerian candidates have found themselves in a society where examination malpractice is celebrated and, sometimes, justified. The environment has a way of influencing students who are quick to embrace norms. In a society that will go to any lengths to succeed, cheating has become one of the somewhat accepted vices in society.
Societal pressure: The emphasis on academic achievement in our society can lead to a culture of competition where students feel compelled to cheat to stay ahead.
CONSEQUENCES OF EXAMINATION MALPRACTICE
Examination malpractice can have various negative effects on individuals, educational institutions, and society as a whole. Here are some of the undesirable effects brought about by exam malpractices.
Undermining the education system: Examination malpractice erode the credibility of our education system, making it difficult to trust the validity of grades and certificates.
Unfair advantage: Cheating gives some students an unfair advantage over others, leading to a lack of competition.
Lack of knowledge and skills: By cheating, students miss out on the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills, which are essential for their future success.
Damage to reputation: Examination malpractices can damage the reputation of the students, schools, and the education system as a whole.
REMEDIES FOR EXAMINATION MALPRACTICE
Improved supervision: Strengthening supervision during examinations can help prevent malpractices.Encouraging a growth mindset: Fostering a growth mindset among students can help them focus on learning rather than just grades.
Providing support: Schools and teachers can provide support to students who are struggling, helping them to stay on track and avoid desperation.
Promoting academic integrity: Encouraging academic integrity and a culture of honesty can help to prevent examination malpractices.
Severe penalties: Implementing severe penalties for examination malpractice can serve as a warning.
In conclusion, examination malpractice is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. By understanding the causes and consequences of this scourge, we can work towards finding effective remedies. As students, we must recognize the importance of academic integrity and strive to uphold it. Together, we can create a fair and honest education system that values knowledge, skills and hard -work.
by Eniola & Misturah - SS2