Concerns on Issues of Examination Malpractices A Case Study of Accra Polytechnic

Abstract

Examination malpractice contravenes the rules and regulations set by examination bodies. This research looks at the forms, the factors and key players in examination malpractices, as well as the consequences and measures to combat this menace. Administering of questionnaires using random sampling, and analysis of collected data were done. 90 out of the 96 sampled-staff in Accra Polytechnic responded. Results reveal that most of the leakages came from candidate’s peers (66.7 %). The common forms of examination malpractice included writings on items (100%) and on candidates’ bodies (83.3 %). From 2000 to 2011 the various forms of examination malpractices increased, from 5 to 12. About 37 % of the respondents had ever been involved in a malpractice; and 94.5 % confessed that examination malpractice is bad. There was no correlation between the ages or gender and involvement in examination malpractices. Adequate orientation to all stakeholders and on-time implementation of approved sanctions to culprits, as well as the adaptation of the Competency Based Teaching / Learning (CBT / L) are measures highly recommended to help address the issues of examination malpractice.