I make 2 or sometimes 3 copies of the test, all with the same questions but questions and answers scrambled. They are labeled A, B, and C. When I pass them out I simply give student in the first seat test A the next Test B the Next Test C then go back to A for the next student. This way if their eyes "wander" or "roll" around looking for an answer to question 3 on either of their neighbors, question 3 is not the same as either of his or her neigbors. Some may think it makes more work when you grade the test but not really your answer key's match the questions on each version of the test and I make up a version map to go along with it.
If the test is computerized. I set the test parameters to scramble the test questions and answers. I've had very few problems doing this.
While I don't see this as a lot of work for either preparation or grading is there an easier way?
I have all student clear off their desks, pull out a pen or wite out. Then I have all the students stand while I call out the names alphabetically and distribute the tests as I direct the new test seatings. I tell the class upon completion of the test all students may return to their desired seats.
Having different test. Circulating the classroom.
Hi Angela,
I feel as though study guides are great tools to prepare students for tests, thus cutting back on the want for students to cheat.
Patricia
I strongly agree. At the beginning of each test I simply explain the rules and regulations about cheating on the test,if my students are caught, they will receive a zero.But i also let them know that they will not learn the material if they do not study.Studying is the key to there success not cheating.Also with my students I give out the day before the test a study guide to help prepare them for there final test to make them feel at ease before test time.
First, I have reduced student cheating by letting the students know that I am aware that it happens. I am sure to let them know that as adults, I would not expect this from them. However, I still require all personal belongings to be placed off the desk during testing. I do have to sit in the front of the classroom due to the seating arrangement, but keep a close watch over the room.
I think these three approaches covers it...having different tests is a good tool.
Reiterating what will happen in the work force; if you are unprepared---because you cannot cheat through something--shows that it really doesn't serve themselves in the long run. I think that is a good reminder prior to the test, rather than the "if I catch you,you get a "0" for the test" I would much prefer to avoid that scenerio. Thanks for the advice!
I think by walking around the class during a test or quiz would help to prevent cheating. Staying alert will help also.
Hi M. Hussain,
What a thorough list to minimize cheating. It sounds like you do a fantastic job preparing your students for tests so that they should not have to cheat. Your students should appreciate the test review and how you do not put anything on the test that was not covered in class.
Patricia
Hi Reika,
Great question to give students something to think about when it comes to cheating.
Patricia
Hi Carolyn,
Having various versions of a quiz is a great way to prevent cheating.
Patricia
Hi Michael,
Very pyschological approach! Great way to discourage students from cheating.
Patricia
Hi Olmarys,
That's right! If a student knows that you are one to sit and be less active during test time, students will take full advantage of you.
Patricia
The best way to reduce cheating is to be creative and vigilent! While administering a test, walk around the room.
Hi Patricia,
Because we have small classrooms, I make up test A, B and C. They all have the same questions, but the questions are in different orders. I only tell the students that they should prepare for their quizzes or tests as there are three different tests that I hand out. I do not tell them that the questions are them same. :)
I see several people have replied that they have multiple versions of the same test. I also have successfully used this method. It works really well for large classes.
I must admit that approaching a student who I believe is cheating is one of the hardest things for me to do in the classroom. I find I am very uncomfortable because each time I wonder if I am mistaken, even when I'm sure I am not. I also think I am hoping to be mistaken because it is so disappointing to see a student cheating.
I have the Students clear their desk and spread out and I walk the rolls untill the test is completed. In other words I make it easier to just take the test.
Thanks for the question. It is not possible 100% to control cheating but it could be prevented a lot. I follow the following steps to reduce cheating:
1. I cover the course contents efficiently.
2. I evaluate the students understanding by asking question and their group discussion during and at the end of the class.
3. I review the exam contents on a given date so that no student can make complaint.
4. I do not give any question that is not covered in the lectures.
5. Students are seated apart enough not to see each other.
6. Students are warned before the test about cheating and its consequences.
7. I do not leave the room even for a moment.
8. I walk around the room.
9. Make frequent eye contact to the suspects.
10. I make body languages to the suspect instantly and warn them that I am aware about their intension.
11. When I have the evidence I personally talk to them out side the class time and give them verbal warning for the first time and written warning for the next and I document it.
I like the idea of letting the students know before hand that "Today we will be useing test number "B"....even though we may only have one test to give. It won't matter to most students, but may discourage a cheater into thinking that he must now apply his knowledge to the task at hand.
i suspected a student of cheating so i made different quizzes for each student.
