Factors Influencing Cheating Tendency in Examinations Among Undergraduate Students of the University of Calabar, Nigeria

Abstract

The main thrust of this study was to find out factors influencing cheating tendency in examination among undergraduate students of the University Of Calabar. To give the study it's direction, four hypotheses were formulated. Related literatures were reviewed based on the major variables of the study. Ex-post- facto research design was adopted for the study. The major instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire. The instrument was designed by the researchers with the help of some major experts in measurement and evaluation which give the face and content validity of the instrument. 200 students were randomly selected from Faculty of Education, University of Calabar for the study. The hypotheses formulated were tested using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient analytical technique. The result of the analysis revealed that self-concept, Intelligence, moral value and test anxiety significantly influence students' tendency to be involved in examination malpractice. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that parents and lecturers should endeavour to build good moral in their students so that the students should be aware of the fact that to cheat in an examination is immoral. Examination ethics code of conduct should be produced and distributed in schools and appropriate authorities. This will spell out duties and responsibilities as well as penalties needed for the conduct of examination in our educational system.