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Cheating Detection: Statistical, Legal, and Policy Implications.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Cheating Detection: Statistical, Legal, and Policy Implications.
Language: English
Authors: Dwyer, David J., Hecht, Jeffrey B.
Peer Reviewed: N
Page Count: 15
Publication Date: 1994
Document Type: Information Analyses
Descriptors: Cheating, College Students, Court Litigation, Discipline Problems, Higher Education, Identification, Legal Problems, Multiple Choice Tests, Prevention, Probability, School Policy, Statistical Analysis, Teacher Student Relationship
Geographic Terms: U.S.; Illinois
Abstract: This paper reviews the issues involved in using statistical data on multiple choice examination results as evidence of cheating among college student test-takers. Recent studies have demonstrated the large extent of academic dishonesty among American college students. Seeking to curb this trend, college faculty have been turning to statistical methodologies to detect cheating on multiple choice examinations. The paper maintains that no mechanistic detection method currently available can provide reliable evidence of cheating. Statistical evidence alone should not be used to accuse individuals of cheating, it is argued, since it cannot conclusively prove that cheating took place. The paper concludes by asserting that faculty and administration must work together to change the culture surrounding academic dishonesty from discipline to development, from prosecution to prevention. (Contains 34 references.) (MDM)
Journal Code: RIESEP1995
Entry Date: 1995
Accession Number: ED382066
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:This paper reviews the issues involved in using statistical data on multiple choice examination results as evidence of cheating among college student test-takers. Recent studies have demonstrated the large extent of academic dishonesty among American college students. Seeking to curb this trend, college faculty have been turning to statistical methodologies to detect cheating on multiple choice examinations. The paper maintains that no mechanistic detection method currently available can provide reliable evidence of cheating. Statistical evidence alone should not be used to accuse individuals of cheating, it is argued, since it cannot conclusively prove that cheating took place. The paper concludes by asserting that faculty and administration must work together to change the culture surrounding academic dishonesty from discipline to development, from prosecution to prevention. (Contains 34 references.) (MDM)