Whether cheating is more common in online classes than in traditional classes is still open to debate. According to surveys that ask students to self-report on cheating behavior, cheating certainly occurs in both environments. One recent study seems to indicate that contrary to popular belief, cheating is not occurring more frequently in online classes than in traditional classes. Both online and traditional educators are concerned about students cheating and are combating cheating in several different ways.
Identify Verification
One of the big issues at any college is identity verification—making sure that the person who receives credit for the course is the person who really does the work and takes the tests. Online colleges use techniques such as secure log-ins and pass codes to make sure that only legitimate students have access to materials. Technology companies have promoted products that ask students taking tests to verify their identities by correctly answering personal questions, as well as tools such as fingerprint scanners, 360-degree webcams, and a tool that allows a proctor to verify keystrokes. Online colleges must turn in reports to accrediting agencies about their processes for identity verification.
Types of Testing
Besides verifying identity, online colleges use several methods of testing that discourage cheating or make it much more difficult.
- Online instructors often use timed tests and sometimes even individually timed questions, giving their students only enough time to complete the questions if they know the material.
- Instructors also vary the questions and the order of questions on students’ tests.
- Some give individualized writing assignments so that no two assignments will look the same, or they may require a personal writing sample at the beginning of the course.
- Group projects are often assigned, and sometimes the use of outside materials is incorporated into graded projects.
Proctored Tests
One testing method implemented by some online colleges to reduce cheating has been the proctored test. A student might be required to have all or part of his exams proctored.
A proctor is someone authorized by the college to supervise an examination and verify the test taker’s identity by checking a specified identification card, such as a driver’s license or other photo ID. Proctoring sites might be chosen by the college in locations that are convenient to students, or students might be allowed to choose proctors to be approved by the college. Common proctoring sites are public libraries, community colleges, local universities, and military bases. Some testing facilities might charge fees for proctoring exams.
