Examination Malpractices in Nigeria Higher Institutions; Types, Causes, and Implications

Among other problems bedeviling higher institutions of learning in Nigeria is the issue of examination malpractices. This seems to have negatively influence the quality of education in the country and appears to have affected the level of international recognition of Nigerians certificate in the outside world. The purpose of this study is to investigate and establish the types, causes and implications of examination malpractices in institutions of higher learning in Nigeria. It indicates that the main types of Exam malpractices include: Leakage of Exam Questions, unauthorized writings, copying, impersonation among others. Some of the causes of exam malpractices include: poor preparation for exams, lack of integrity on the part of students, financial gain, etc. The study shows that the implications of exam malpractices are: undeserving students awarded degrees, which leads to poor job performance in the labour market, and in turn affects the overall economy of the country as a whole. The study concludes that action needs to be taken to save our institutions of higher learning from this vice. This study recommends the following to curb the problem: tough penalties for the culprits, moderation of exams, installation of CCTV cameras, and improvement on invigilation amongst others.