Nature and causes of examination malpractice in selected secondary schools in Kitwe district in Zambia

This study aimed at investigating Examination Malpractices in selected secondary schools in Kitwe District. Despite high premium placed on examinations, examination malpractice is still on the increase. The aim of this study was to bring out the causes, effects and solutions to the vice. A case study design was used. Methods of data collection included interview guides for Education Standards Officer at DEBS office and head teachers for each selected secondary school while group discussions were used for learners. Questionnaires were used for learners and teachers. The sample for the study was forty- four (44) and this was shared as follows twenty (20) grade twelve learners, five (5) guidance teachers, one (1) ECZ Officer, five (5) head teachers, ten (10) teachers, one (1) DESO and two (2) parents. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically. This study revealed the nature of Examination Malpractices which included body writing, leakage, impersonation, collusion, external assistance, smuggling, copying, hiding materials in toilets, taking in already answered scripts and replace them with the already answered script given to them and use of cell phones by text messages. The study also highlighting the reasons for Examination Malpractice which includes fear of failure, to pass the examination, lack of confidence, worry of failing to get a certificate to get a Job, laziness, frequent absenteeism and improper guidance by teachers to face examination. The study generally revealed that both boys and girls are culprits of Examination Malpractices and both private and government school pupils were engaged in the vice because they all desire to pass the examinations. Additionally, the study also ravealed that learner from low socio – economic background and high socio – economic background were engage in Examination Malpractice, the study recommends a sound Examination policy which should be used to guide management and administration of public examination in schools