Researchers found that unsupervised online exams produced scores very similar to in-person, proctored exams, indicating minimal or ineffective cheating and supporting the validity and reliability of online assessments. Despite the concerns, the consistent results across different disciplines and levels encouraged the continuation of online exams, although professors remain cautious, implementing strategies to further deter cheating.
To know if this was happening at a broader level, Chan and Dahwi Ahn, a Ph.D. candidate in psychology, analyzed test score data from nearly 2,000 students across 18 classes during the spring 2020 semester. Their sample ranged from large, lecture-style courses with high enrollment, like Introduction to Statistics, to advanced courses in engineering and veterinary medicine.
“Before conducting this research, I had doubts about online and unproctored exams, and I was quite hesitant to use them if there was an option to have them in-person. But after seeing the data, I feel more confident and hope other instructors will, as well,” says Ahn. Still, the researchers say instructors should be aware of potential weak spots with unsupervised, online exams. For example, some platforms have the option of showing students the correct answer immediately after they select a multiple-choice option. This makes it much easier for students to share answers in a group text.Use larger, randomized question banks.Chan and Ahn say the spring 2020 semester provided a unique opportunity to research the validity of online exams for student evaluations.
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