Make sure you have the proper proctering in place.The proctor must be active.
The top 2 ways I use are:
1.large spaces between students.
2.Different versions of the same test just in different number order.
Remember to make sure cell phones are not seen.
On the syllabus, make sure you address cheating problems and the possible result on cheating. Show you are seriously about any cheating behavior and the consequences.
After heavily reinforcing the consequences for cheating I have been known to seperate students if they are sitting to close together. I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of students that actually appreciated this. If there is a known cheater and I am not able to catch them I play musical chairs until they are seated in front of me. This seems to discourage the cheater.
When I give exams, I walk around the classroom(most of the time). I stand on the side of the classroom (where I can get a clear view of the entire class) and just watch students.
I do express the consequences for cheating. I remind them of the language on the syllabus. It is definitely a serious offense and they could be expelled from school if the behavior persists.
Although I am sure it still exists, I try to eliminate it by incorporating the above strategies in my classroom.
My thoughts exactly, Nicholas!
I feel there needs to be more of direct consequence for them if caught cheating. Some students cheat so much, it becomes second nature. They need to know that there are consequences for their behavior.
As the previous response stated, I ensure students that cheating is way of deterring the education that they have paid for. It ensures the chances of being caught and receiving a lower grade (like a zero) than they anticipated.
When I test my students, I have them sit every other chair (if possible), in addition I make different versions of the test depending on the number of students I have in my class.
Finally, I don't allow the use of electronic devices--so as to reduce the use of texting when testing. I also make sure the desk is clear of obstacles to make it clear and easy to view their working space.
Hi Michael,
I feel slighted when I have determined that one of my students have cheated after having a THOROUGH study guide and review.
Patricia Scales
Hi Mazen,
We know our students abilities. If you every suspect something fishy going on, dig deep into the situation, such as gooling questionable writing.
Patricia Scales
There are many ways to prevent cheating in a classroom, but it is hard to eliminate it completly. One method is to place spaces between each student in order to eliminate the cheating process this only works if you have small classes. If you have a large class create 2 or more versions of a test this will keep the stduents from wanting to look at others papers. There are many more but these are the two techniques that I have used in the past in order to prevent cheating. Also it is vital that the teacher or instructor walks around the room as well to prevent cheaing.
I have a list of class rules that I hand out on the first day of class. My list clearly states that cheating in any form will not be tolerated. My list also explains that I am allowed to separate students at test time, leaving the classroom during the test is prohibited, that any communication between students while they have a test paper in front of them will be viewed as cheating and that they may not touch their cell phones during a test/exam. I am currently a student myself and my Physics professor makes sure we cannot see another student's paper so I do not feel guilty about the measures I take to ensure a secure test taking environment.
Student that have the anxiety for cheating benefit from well organized study guides and a thourough review, kind of like cheating ahead of time; I always view each classroom and course as what do we actually learn from our studies? From my experience I always learn much about myself through each course.
Hi Michael,
I like to give my students study guides and thoroughly review for the test so that they do not feel a need to cheat.
Patricia Scales
For objective quizzes and examinations, I use two or three different versions so students have different versions on either side of them.
Sometimes I simply put Version A or Version B on the top of the quiz and I ask them to note which one they have in front of them.
Sometimes I have more group assignments where I expect them to collaborate like teams in the "real world" often are required to do.
Lastly, on papers, I Google any suspicious looking writing.
Just when I think I have seen all the ways students can cheat-surprise!! How I avoid it-
Tests-They sit a seat apart; I periodically walk around the room; I alter Test A and B (same test just reversed;With large classes, I sometimes remove excess students to the Study Lab where they are monitored
Homework-I do not accept typed homework; must be in student's own handwriting and I watch out for similiar examples (down to the t) for homework answers. I agree with building rapport with students, but the real cheaters will fake that also
I generally review for test to encourage confidence in students and to allow them to study the correct material in a fast paced environment. I always tell students to keep their eyes on their own paper and have a clear view of the students during the exam. Career students know that the knowledge of the material is key to future success in the industry.
Make sure that desks and area around them are clear. If there is room make sure that there is at least a chairs space between them and their neighbor. Also make sure no phones can be used or within eye reach while taking the test.
I also walk around the room and stand in different areas to make sure no one is cheating
GIVE A DIFFERENT TEST TO EACH STUDENT OR AN A AND B TEST
Give the rules before the exam. Write on the board the time frame if it is a timed test. Tell the class to clear their desk, keep their eye on their own paper and cover their exam. Instruct the class to put all cell phones away, some student like to store answers on their cell phones. Bathroom breaks should have been taken prior to the exam and most importantly walk around the class room especially walk near students whom you expect are cheating more than likely they won't make another attempt once they feel you are watching them.
I have used alternate forms of an exam (Such as A and B) and each student gets a different version. Thus, when students are seated in close proximity, they at least do not have the same exam as the student on either side of them.
