Cheating and Technology
All cell phones shold be banned during test taking
Dan,
I had a student use a music player to cheat. He wrote answers to a test where names of music should have been. I ban all electronics!
I agree. Additionally, before each testing session, i remind students about not accessing their phones, i give them the correct time at the beginning of the test, and i write the reminder on the board up front. With all of these reminders and explanations of the consequences, they know that if a cell phone is out or viewed during the test they will recieve a zero for that test.
Some feel the same about testing with online courses.. however, the best method is to have students write -- whether it's in class or out.. no matching no memorizing. Of course this is more work for the instructor,, but a better assessment of learning.
Hi Kassy,
It does appear to be harder to cheat whenver essay is involved. You're right, it is more work for the instructor, but we must do what is best for the students, not what's easier for us.
Patricia
I agree. My students must put their cell phones on vibrate or turned off and put away before the start of a test. They also know that if they answer a call or a text while testing their test is terminated at that moment. This rule applies to all students regardless of situation. In the case of a true emergency, other arrangements are made for that student.
This is such a good observation and question on cheating students by the use of modern technoloy. It's probably harder for older instructor's, to catch them at their cheating game because some are not too computer savvy. I believe we need to stay current and very well informed so that we can beat them at their "game".
Hi Maria,
My institution has a standard policy about cell phones. Cell phones are to be turned off during class time. If the cell phone goes off, the student has to leave and is counted as absent for the day, and the student receives zeroes for work.
Patricia
It seems no matter how hard I try to control any form of cheating, the students find new ways. I think essays and short answers are the best at limiting the cheaters.
Wow! They put more effort into cheating than learning the material. I don't like essays. Then I have to read them. Harder to grade too. Short answer works for me. Nothing on the desk but what I need from you. Space between students. If I can't catch them I know life will. It will come back to haunt them later.
