Imagine walking into an exam hall where whispers of collusion and secret notes being passed around overshadow the anticipation of demonstrating one’s knowledge. This problem, particularly prevalent in secondary schools, undermines the purpose of education and produces individuals ill-equipped to face academic or real-world challenges.What was once an isolated problem has evolved into a systemic menace, threatening the credibility of education and the value of academic achievements.
Examination malpractice has grown into a serious epidemic, threatening not only the quality of education but also the character of future leaders.this scenario is alarmingly common, eroding the values of hard work and honesty.
Examination malpractice refers to any form of dishonest behaviour that compromises the integrity of an examination. It involves actions taken by students, teachers, or external parties to manipulate the process and outcome of tests or exams. This behaviour ranges from cheating in classrooms to more organised forms of fraud involving invigilators or institutions.
In secondary schools, this malpractice has grown rampant due to different factors. Although this behaviour is not excusable for whatever reasons, however, here are some factors contributing to examination malpractice. Many students enter exams unprepared due to ineffective study habits, procrastination, or distractions such as excessive screen time.
A lack of confidence in their ability to perform encourages them to seek shortcuts. Parents, in their quest for their children’s success, sometimes unknowingly contribute to the problem. Unrealistic expectations and comparisons with peers can push students to cheat out of fear of disappointing their families. In some cases, educators and examination officials contribute to the problem by aiding or turning a blind eye to malpractice. Corruption, driven by bribery or fear of losing students to competing schools, undermines the integrity of exams.
Examination malpractice manifests in various ways, including bringing unauthorised materials into the exam hall, sharing answers during exams is a common practice, impersonation, use of technology such as mobile phones, smartwatches, and other devices are employed to access information illicitly.
This practice has lots of consequences affecting not just the educationsector but the society at large. Examination malpractice devalues the quality of education as students pass without acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills. When cheating becomes commonplace, the credibility of the educational system is questioned. Employers and institutions lose confidence in the qualifications awarded.
Students who cheat often lack the ability to solve real-world problems, leading to an underperforming workforce. In some cases, individuals caught engaging in malpractice face suspension, expulsion, or even legal action. This tarnishes their reputation and limits future opportunities.
Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach involving students, parents, educators, and policymakers. Schools should prioritise teaching students about the importance of honesty and integrity. Moral education can help students understand that success achieved through unethical means is hollow.
Students must be encouraged to develop effective study habits. Teachers and parents should provide guidance and resources to help students prepare adequately for exams. Also, exam environments should be monitored closely to prevent malpractice. This includes hiring well-trained invigilators and using surveillance technology such as cameras in examination halls.
Enforcing severe consequences for malpractice can act as a deterrent. Students and staff involved in cheating should face disciplinary actions, including expulsion and dismissal. While technology can aid malpractice, it can also be a tool to combat it. Schools can adopt computer-based testing systems that make cheating more difficult.
Additionally, plagiarism detection software can ensure fairness in assignments. Schools can make use of computer based test to ensure that cheating is reduced to the barest minimum. Lastly, government and educational bodies should launch campaigns highlighting the dangers of examination malpractice. These campaigns can use workshops, seminars, and social media to reach students and educators.
