Posted images of California school tests raise cheating concerns

Howard Blume:

Hundreds of photos of standardized tests have begun to appear on social-networking sites in California, raising concerns about test security and cheating by students.

In the worst-case scenario, the photos could lead to invalidating test scores for entire schools or prevent the state from using certain tests. For now, officials have warned school districts to heighten test security and investigate breaches. Students are not allowed to have access to cellphones or other devices that can take pictures when the tests are administered.

"Test security was compromised when students posted images of actual test questions, answer documents and test booklets to social networking sites," Deb Sigman, a state Department of Education deputy superintendent, said in a letter Friday to school districts. "You have a responsibility to prevent any such incidences in the future."

Educators involved in testing sign an affidavit asserting that they follow and enforce all rules.

Posted by Jim Zellmer at April 30, 2012 2:13 AM
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