Exploring National Examination Malpractice Mechanisms and Countermeasures: An Ethiopian Perspective

Abstract

Exam malpractice can be found in every nation in the globe. The practice of providing quality examinations in Ethiopian schools has ran into difficulties. The various forms of national examination malpractices, as well as preventative methods, were investigated in this study.A5-point rating scale labelled ’Forms of Examination Malpractices Questionnaire (FEMPQ) was adapted and administered to 1,359 respondents. To supplement the findings, an interview was also conducted with 15 educational officials. While Mean and Standard Deviations were used for quantitative data analysis, narrative analysis was used for qualitative analysis. Among the major forms of malpractices identified are; doing examinations in groups (M = 4.43, SD =.739), collusions (M =3.97, SD =.750), leakages (M = 3.44, SD =.787), and receiving answers through mobile phones (M = 3.73, SD =.711). Findings from interview also revealed; some schools intentionally prepare examination classrooms in the darkest locations, assigning irresponsible invigilators/supervisors, and intentionally misplacing sitting arrangements during examinations. From the findings, the curbing strategies and educational implications are suggested as; schools should work upon students cognitive and moral developments. And, the country needs to establish an independent National Organization of Educational Measurement and Evaluation professionals, and gradually shift from booklet exam formats to online based exam practices.