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The seemingly instantaneous switch to remote online learning on account of the global pandemic brought about new challenges for maintaining academic integrity.
Students from across the country were forced to study and write their exams remotely without invigilation.
Traditionally, examinations are monitored by a physical invigilator to ensure the student is writing in the correct venue, writing the correct paper and that silence is maintained while the exam is in progress.
This all changed as a result of the pandemic.
Also read: Get a head start on Matric exam prep
'A loss of credibility'
In 2020, universities reported a sharp increase in the number of academic misconduct events involving cheating.
Not only is this counterproductive for the students themselves, but it creates long-term repercussions and might lead to the possibility of a "lost generation".
"If examinations are assessed inadequately, the integrity and value of the qualification endures a loss of credibility, impacting future employment", points out academic and entrepreneur behind the Invigilator App, Nicholas Riemer.
Riemer believes that South African educational institutions turning a blind eye while testing remotely could be the downfall of the current generation.
Students and institutions alike need to ask themselves: Will these qualifications mean anything if people doubt the invigilation process due to assessments happening online?
How would this impact the quality of qualifications when entering the workforce?
Submitted to Parent24 by The Invigilator App.
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