Cheating in Online English Tests: The Impact of Major and GPA on Students’ Cheating Behaviors and Proposed Solutions

Elahe Asadpour, Arak University
Hooshang Yazdani, Arak University

https://doi.org/10.9743/JEO.2025.22.4.1

Abstract

The advent of online learning in contemporary educational landscapes has established online examinations as key evaluative instruments. Despite their growing use, there remains a lack of scholarly inquiry into online examinations, academic integrity, and preventative measures against dishonesty. This research aims to explore the perceptions of 153 undergraduate students enrolled in online general English courses across humanities and engineering faculties at Yasuj University and Shahrekord University in Iran. The objective is to delve into the students’ perceptions of various forms of cheating and to propose strategies to restrict such behavior. Employing a mixed-method research design, participants were surveyed using 23 items including an open-ended question at the end. This study also analyzed the influence of GPA and field of study on perceptions of cheating. We uncovered a range of cheating strategies that students utilized in online assessments and propose solutions to restrict such practices. Notably, the study revealed that GPA significantly influences student perceptions towards and engagement in cheating, whereas the field of study was not a determinant factor. These insights might be instrumental in enhancing the structure and administration of online examinations.

Keywords: online English exams, cheating practices, cheating prevention, academic major, GPA