Accused Of Cheating Online Exam Reddit
My professor recently accused several students of cheating on an online exam, though one offered an honest explanation (he randomly guessed for each question), but was still told to take the test with a zero score despite this valid argument. Because monitoring systems store so much data it may be hard to prove innocence.
The Case
Monitoring programs have the advantage and disadvantage of tracking all types of clicks outside the quiz window, including any that were outside its scope. If anything other than quiz window clicks were recorded by these monitoring programs it could be seen as evidence that you were cheating; otherwise there should not be any direct evidence against you; that burden lies solely with professor to prove otherwise. It should never be treated lightly; get your facts straight before reacting – though odds are in your favor and I wouldn’t take that for granted!
The Evidence
One of the advantages and disadvantages of modern testing systems is their logging ability; they probably recorded every click outside the exam window, any windows you clicked on outside, any chat room clicks you made, social media posts you viewed etc. So even if they formally charge you it should be simple to demonstrate your innocence; be sure to get screenshots or records if possible of everything, as long as 51% or more evidence supports you you should not be charged – the burden lies with them, not you!
The Consequences
Monitoring programs have both benefits and drawbacks: they log a vast amount of data – such as any clicks that don’t belong in the quiz window – which allows them to formally accuse you of academic dishonesty; but, even if they can prove it against you, it remains up to them to prove it and prove you cheated; otherwise you have grounds to claim their accusations were made unfairly, in which case they must vacate results and give you full credit for work done.