Detection of Cheating on Multiple-Choice Tests by Using Error-Similarity Analysis

Abstract

Cheating on multiple-choice examinations is a serious problem not easily overcome by using more test forms, more proctors, or larger testing rooms. A statistical procedure compares answers for pairs of students using those items on which both made errors. If the number of identical wrong answers is sufficiently greater than the number expected by chance and if the students were seated close together, then cheating is likely. Using this analysis with 90 examinations has suggested ways to discourage cheating and demonstrated some limitations of the procedure.