Hi Meri,
I concur! Technology has made it even easier for students to cheat. As educators we have to do the best we can to deter cheating. You have great practices in place to reduce cheating.
Patricia Scales
Ms. Scales,
With today's technology so easily available it's very hard to control the temptation of cheating. Before each test, I collect all cell phones in a "bucket" and students can have them back once they have completed the test. Having more then one version of the test is also something that is done, especially for final test. I also explain that test are used more as a learning tool for the student.
seating where they cannot see other peers. Eyes like to drift even on an honest person so take away the ability to see anything important
Scrambled test questions and no items available except those required to assist with testing (scratch paper, calculator, etc...)
I agree making separate test helps. I think walking around the class, as well as setting your expectations makes a difference.
Walk around is my big one. Also by using A & B versions of tests.
A good way to reduce cheating is too require essay questions on the exam and have students answer questions that is based on the course's outline and to include their opinions incorporated with the question.
It is a good idea to let all the students know the consequences of cheating and too inform them of how a student can be removed from the class and the college they attend
Ask them to sit in a different seat just for the exam; Sit in the back of the classroom and observe; ensure that phones and all other materials are cleared from their desk; Space the students out considerably if possible....
There are several methods I use to reduce the opportunity for cheating in my classes. First, we have several different versions of the test so if someone is absent, they will take a different version when they make-up the test than the students that took the test on time. This reduces the chances of one student telling another student what is on the test. Second, to reduce the likelihood of cheat sheets, I instruct the students to put all of their books and personal belongings against the wall of the classroom and they are to remain there until the test is over. By doing this the only thing the student should have on their desk is the test and a pen/pencil. Finally, organizing the desks in my room so I can see everyone from one vantage point allows the students to relax and not worry about me "pacing" the room. If I suspect someone is cheating, I will walk the room. Otherwise, I look over notes or look busy so the students don't realize I'm watching them as much as I actually am.
by walking around periodically to make it known that I see everyone.
Yes, I also do the same thing, especially if the class is tight and students can't be spread out. I also never let them take the test with them. I will review the results of the exam but will collect the tests again.
Another thing to watch out for is for students who take pictures of the exam and send it around. Although it has not personally happened to me I know that it has been done.
Remind them of the consequences
Hi Judd,
I move everywhere while my students are testing. They never know where I will be standing.
Patricia Scales
I really liked the idea of standing in the back of the room.
I provide multiple copies of a test, space students out, clear table tops and also remind them that cheating is reprehensible behavior, its immature, and the only person they are cheating is themselves. If they feel uncomfortable about taking an exam because they weren't prepared, I invite them to tell me beforehand and I may offer an alternate quiz.
I generally will walk around the class while students are being tested. By walking around you let the students know you are watchingthem and generally there is no problems.
Hi Vincent,
Great! I like how you address this cheating epidemic up front with your students. I simply let my students know that they are being watched. This simple technique works.
Patricia Scales
Hi Reza,
What do you tend to do as an instructor to minimize cheating?
Patricia Scales
Preparing students first and foremost for what is on tests is key. Distributing different versions of tests, changing seats and creating enough space between students is also a good idea. Walking around the tesing area is also good.
