Research paper Cheating on tests in primary schools in Jordan A survey study on sixth-grade students at Bilal Bin Rabah Elementary School in Amman, Jordan.

Abstract

This research addresses the phenomenon of cheating in tests in elementary schools in Jordan, focusing on Bilal Ibn Rabah Elementary School as a case study. The aim of the research is to identify the main reasons that drive students to resort to cheating, analyze the negative impacts of this phenomenon on academic achievement and understanding, and propose solutions and strategies to mitigate it. Data was collected from a sample of 170 sixth-grade students, 50 teachers, and 50 parents. The following research tools were used: questionnaires, interviews, and field observations. The results showed that 60% of students admitted to cheating on tests at least once, and 70% felt significant academic pressure that drives them to cheat. The findings indicated that academic pressures, high expectations from parents and teachers, and traditional teaching methods are among the main reasons that drive students to cheat. In addition, the study demonstrated that cheating leads to poor academic performance and a loss of genuine understanding of the subject matter. The results also emphasized the importance of enhancing supervision during exams and implementing strict penalties for instances of cheating.

Based on the findings, a set of recommendations was presented, including enhancing ethical awareness among students, training teachers on teaching methods that promote critical thinking, and providing psychological support for students. It was also proposed to improve the exam environment and strengthen communication with parents.