Witnessing of Cheating-in-Exams Behavior and Factors Sustaining Integrity

This study is a fraction of a larger research on cheating, at the School of Engineering (SOE). The study design used a descriptive survey approach and a document analysis. A designed confidential self-report questioner was used as the main instrument, for this study, with the sample size of 100 subjects and response rate of 95%. The tool was pre-tested, to ensure its validity and reliability. The study focused on the Classical Test Theory and on the Theory of Reasoned Action. The data collection instrument was subjected to the statistical analysis to determine its reliability via Cronbach's alpha coefficient, and found high inter-item consistency (a > 0.9). The results of the survey revealed that only 18% of the respondents admitted that they have never cheated; however, they have witnessed an array of cheating techniques used by their classmates, which illustrates, that students are exceedingly inventive and opportunistic, in nature, and they are ready to use any method, to achieve their ultimate goals (mainly, good grades). 22% of those never cheated, confessed that they were afraid of being caught by the invigilators; while only 6% stated that "I was afraid of being reported by my fellow classmates." The absence of "risk" (fear of penalties), is above all, attention-grabbing, to this study, as it implies that SOE students do not bothered much about getting caught cheating. Recommendations on measures, to be applied, to fight cheating menace, were presented, in conjunction with suggestions, for further research, in this area. In synopsis, the maintenance of academic integrity, by all stakeholders, is a continuing and enduring task, which will bring in rewards, but "only" if attentively managed.