Students' Longstanding Struggle with Exam Cheating

Cheating in exams is not a new phenomenon. It has been a persistent challenge for educators and institutions for decades, evolving with the times and the tools available to students. From hidden notes to digital tricks, the methods have changed, but the underlying issue remains the same: a desire to gain an unfair advantage.

One former teacher and former NZQA worker, Richard Cole, recalls how cheating was always a challenge in the classroom. He shares a classic example where students' answers were nearly identical to those of their neighbors. Upon closer inspection, the copied answers were even replicated in the cheaters' papers, confirming the act. This kind of behavior was not uncommon in the days when pen and paper ruled the exam world.

Back then, cheating took more creative forms. Notes were hidden in toilets, inside pants, or even under desks. One memorable case involved boys who tried to hide notes inside their pants. They were caught when a supervisor noticed them staring at their laps for too long. When confronted, they admitted to trying to read the notes, but claimed it was too dark to see them. This kind of ingenuity was both amusing and concerning.

Today, with the rise of digital technology, the methods have become more sophisticated. Students now use smartphones, smartwatches, and even AI tools to cheat. The challenge for educators is not just to catch the cheaters, but to prevent them from gaining an unfair advantage in the first place.

Some suggest a return to the basics. Lorraine Kidd, for instance, proposes that bringing back pen and paper and banning all digital devices during exams would quickly separate honest students from the cheaters. She also suggests having retired teachers observe the exams, adding an extra layer of scrutiny.

But the issue is more than just about methods. It's about the values and ethics that students are learning. As one reader, Dennis Worley, points out, the broader issue of climate change and global responsibility is intertwined with the way we approach education and fairness. It's a reminder that the lessons learned in the classroom extend far beyond the exam hall.

Ultimately, cheating in exams is a reflection of the broader challenges in society. It's a test of integrity, not just of knowledge. And as long as students are looking for shortcuts, educators must continue to adapt and find new ways to ensure fairness and uphold the value of hard work.