Examination Malpractice: A Situational Analysis of Trends at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria

Abstract

The paper reported various examination misconducts committed by the students of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.  The reports of the Examination Monitoring Committee from 2^nd Semester 2007/2008 session to 2^nd Semester 2010/2011 session formed the sources for the analysis.  The analysis showed that 163 out of 257 reported cases had to do with bringing pieces of paper with writing into the examination hall, and 24 cases were for writing on question paper, palm, lap, clothes, etc, using handset has 22 cases, among others.  Recommendations were also proffered on how to curb the examination misconduct, which include restructuring of our education system to make it functional and de-emphasize paper qualification, semester system and the curriculum to be restructured so that students can progress at their own pace and not as a class or cohort, there should be proper invigilation and more lecture halls and theatres to be provided so that enough space is given to each student to write his/her exam.