I use mulitple tests as well. I dont use page numbers, I dont use question numbers and for mulitple choice questions I dont use letters a, b, or c. I just list the answers in order & the students place a check mark next to the correct answer.
I beleive that if you walk the room while students are testing it greatly reduces cheating in the classroom
Hi Daniel,
Your students are lucky to have you explain things to them in their terms so that they understand what is being asked. I know some instructors that will not answer any questions from students during test time. I will clarify things for my students during test time so that they better understand what is being asked.
Patricia
Patricia,
The reading material sums it up pretty well. By displaying a non-interfering presence that prevents the opportunity, by using multiple versions of the exam, and paying attention to the students behavior during the exam, you remove to opportunity before it appears. I employ all of these tactics during tests.
Greg
Yes students nowadays are very clever, I find that walking around the classroom helps as well.
Melanie
We also use the spread out method and multiple tests. Learners always have the opportunity to raise their hand to have me explain any questions to them more directly than the terminology in the actual question, to clarify the question specifically to their learning style and or terminology. When I suspect that a learner has copied a paper and questions the grading I consult with them and as them to explain the meaning to me one on one.
Hi Louise,
The word will get around. Students are vey cautious once it has been determined that an instructor will not tolerate a certain type of behavior/action/practice.
Patrici
Hi Dan,
Sometimes putting fear into our students really work. Whatever works to prevent cheating, do it.
Patricia
Set expectations for students and remind them of the rules before every exam. Moving around the room and creating different tests for the students may help as well.
I told often my students that everyone can try to cheat, but they better not get caught, as a joke... or they may have to finish their test in the president office, or justget a 0 for their work... They usually don't try after i say that...
I use several forms of the same test. I also ensure that I have one form that is strictly a "make-up" in the event I have a student with an excused absence.
Additionally, I advise my students that term papers, or projects, will be checked using a plagiarism software such as "Turn It In". This information is on my syllabus, and it is also verbally reinforced.
I had the unfortunate incident of dealing with student plagiarism. (I knew even before checking ... certain things are a little too famous to claim as your own!) I made a copy of the orginal source, then highlighted all of the plagiarized portions (over 80% of the paper!). After meeting privately with the student, I explained that the student failed my course, and why. This student later told others why the course was repeated. Future students then spoke with me to discuss how to avoid plagiarism.
This is especially tough when the test are given on-line out side of class. Due to the recent changes related to onsite versus online or hybrid classes. Schools are trying to resolve.
Marcia
Hi Camila,
Wow, you do a fine job monitoring your students. I like your techniques. I can see how they can be very effective.
Patricia
Observation, observation, observation. I have seen so many instructors on their computers or other and not paying attention their surroundings. And no cell phones allowed.
I also use different forms of the same test so the student cannot look over to someone else's paper. Also all books, paper, and cell phones (put in box in the front of the class) are not on the desktop. I observe the entire time from the back of the class so they do not know whether I am watching them specifically. I find that now I do not have a cheating issue with my class.
Create the environment that fosters truth and honesty. On test days remove all possibilities to cheat. No notes, no text books or bags or personal belongings on the desk. Before exam day give them a study guide to focus there attention on important themes and information. This will help to reduce the student's stress.
I distribute the test/exam face down and instruct students not to begin until I ask them to begin. I use two difference exam/test sequences on questions (A & B) and alternate between students. Once I am prepared, I instruct the students to begin their test/exam and hang out in the back of the room to observe them during the process.
I use a variety of questions on the exam and weight the answers differently. For example, questions with one word andwers or true false are only worth one point while short response, essay, and critical thinking questions are worth the bulk of the points. By using a variety of questions, you can assess what the student has learned as well as look at patterns among the students who always sit next to eachother.
Great idea - I have found having the tests online and multiple versions works just like you.
I reduce student cheating by assessing them on topics actually covered in class (no trick questions)! It's not fair and balanced if students are tested on concepts and materials that are not included in their lectures, projects, and textbooks. Why give them a reason to cheat!
