Perceived Determinants of Students' Examination Corruption in Distance Education

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined determinants of students' examination corruption at the College of Distance Education (CoDE), University of Cape Coast (UCC), Ghana. Methodology: The participants of the study included students, Regional Coordinators (RCs), and staff of the Examination Unit at CoDE. A sample of 252 students was selected from an accessible population of 3,095 using a proportionate stratified sampling technique. The questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Data were analysed with frequency and percentage counts, standard deviations, and presented in tables supported with transcribed views expressed by the RCs and the Head of Exams Unit (HEU). Findings: The study's findings revealed that examination malpractice was perceived to be a common illegal behaviour among students. The study also found that deviant students engage in examination malpractices at CoDE due to inadequate preparation for examinations. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: It was recommended that the management of the college should sensitise all stakeholders, particularly candidates on the sanctions stipulated in their Students' Handbook for culprits of examination corruption related activities. Also, the college should make study materials available to students on time to fully prepare for all exams.