Cheating Scandals on the ACT
Published on: by SupertutorTV
Introduction
In this article, we discuss three cheating scandals that have occurred on the ACT exam. Cheating on standardized tests like the ACT can have serious consequences, as we'll explore in the following sections.
Cheating Scandals on the ACT
The first cheating scandal discussed in the article revolves around impersonating test takers, also known as 'fake it till you make it.' In 2011, over thirty-five students were indicted for cheating on the ACT and SAT by hiring others to take the exams for them. This scandal involved creating fake student IDs, signing up for exams at different schools, and paying individuals to take the test on their behalf. However, advancements in security measures now require test-takers to upload a photo of themselves for identification, making it much harder to pull off such impersonation tactics.
Another method highlighted in the article is stealing the test, similar to what happened in a security breach in Asia where the exam was leaked in Hong Kong and South Korea in June 2016. As a result, the entire exam was canceled in the region, inconveniencing law-abiding students. The South Korean Court imposed fines of up to six million won for anyone caught stealing an ACT exam. This incident underscored the serious consequences and disruptions caused by attempting to cheat using stolen test materials.
The third cheating scandal discussed in the article involves obtaining test questions in advance by accessing the exam material via prep centers. Specifically, the Global Assessment Certificate Program (GAC) was found to provide students with portions of the actual ACT exam before the test date. This unethical practice led to suspiciously high scores from certain centers and prompted the ACT organization to implement stricter security measures. Students are strongly advised to refrain from cheating and instead focus on legitimate preparation methods to achieve success on the ACT.
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Try it nowFake It Till You Make It: Impersonating Test Takers
The scandal of impersonating test takers, known as 'fake it till you make it,' involved students hiring others to take the ACT and SAT exams on their behalf. This cheating method, which resulted in over thirty-five students being indicted in 2011, included creating fake student IDs and paying individuals to impersonate them during the test. However, due to enhanced security measures requiring photo identification upload and verification, it has become significantly more challenging to cheat in this manner.
The article highlights the importance of adhering to the ACT's strict security protocols, such as presenting a government-issued ID for test verification. The consequences of attempting to cheat by impersonation are severe, leading to felony charges and prison time for those involved. With measures in place to prevent such cheating scandals, students are urged to focus on honest preparation and study methods to achieve their desired scores on standardized exams like the ACT.
The case of impersonating test takers serves as a cautionary tale against engaging in fraudulent activities to obtain higher test scores. By emphasizing the importance of integrity and ethical behavior in testing environments, the article underscores the risks and repercussions associated with cheating on standardized exams. Students are encouraged to prioritize legitimate study practices and utilize available resources for preparation rather than resorting to dishonest tactics that undermine the integrity of academic assessments.
Steal the Test: Security Breach in Asia
The security breach in Asia highlighted in the article involved the theft and leakage of the ACT exam in regions such as Hong Kong and South Korea in June 2016. This incident resulted in the cancellation of all exams in the affected area, causing significant disruptions for law-abiding students. The South Korean Court imposed substantial fines as a deterrent to individuals attempting to steal and compromise the integrity of standardized tests like the ACT.
The consequences of stealing the test, as seen in the Asia security breach, underscore the serious implications of attempting to cheat on standardized exams. By imposing hefty fines and disrupting test schedules, authorities aim to deter future incidents of test theft and leakages. Students are advised to focus on ethical study practices and legitimate preparation methods to avoid jeopardizing their academic and professional futures through dishonest means.
The security breach incident serves as a cautionary reminder of the risks associated with cheating on standardized tests and the importance of upholding academic integrity in educational settings. By acknowledging the severe penalties and disruptions caused by attempting to steal exam materials, students are encouraged to prioritize honesty and hard work in their test preparation efforts. Through ethical conduct and dedication to academic excellence, individuals can achieve success without resorting to unethical practices that undermine the credibility of educational assessments.
Study Test Questions Beforehand: Global Assessment Certificate Program
One of the cheating scandals discussed in the article involves individuals gaining access to AC T exam questions before they were officially released. This scandal centered around prep centers such as the Global Assessment Certificate Program (GAC), which is an AC T-- foreign subsidiary with centers in over 11 countries. Officials at some of these centers were accused of sharing portions of the exact AC T exam with students prior to taking the test. This unethical practice resulted in suspiciously high scores from students who attended these centers.
In response to these cheating scandals, the AC T has implemented stricter security measures to prevent any unauthorized access to exam materials. The organization now ships exam materials in locked boxes and is closely monitoring prep centers like the GAC. By cracking down on these unethical practices, the AC T aims to maintain the integrity of its exams and ensure a fair testing environment for all students.
While gaining advance access to test questions may have been a way to cheat on the AC T in the past, the increased security measures have likely thwarted such practices. As a result, students looking to excel on the AC T should focus on legitimate preparation methods, such as studying the official AC T practice materials. By investing time and effort into proper preparation, students can increase their chances of achieving high scores on the exam without resorting to cheating.
Prepping for the ACT: Super Tutor TV's ACT Prep Video Series
The article highlights the importance of proper preparation for the AC T exam as a legitimate way to improve performance. Super Tutor TV offers an AC T prep video series designed to help students excel on the exam. The series covers various aspects of the AC T test, providing valuable tips and strategies for test takers. With the expertise of Super Tutor TV's instructors, students can enhance their understanding of the exam content and improve their test-taking skills.
By utilizing the resources offered in Super Tutor TV's AC T prep video series, students can access valuable study materials and practice questions to aid in their preparation. The series is designed to help students navigate the challenges of the AC T exam and develop effective strategies for answering different question types. Whether students need to boost their overall scores or focus on specific sections of the exam, the AC T prep video series can provide the necessary guidance and support.
In addition to offering paid resources, Super Tutor TV also provides a free trial of their AC T prep video series. This allows students to explore the content and quality of the materials before making a commitment. By taking advantage of the free trial, students can assess whether the AC T prep video series aligns with their study needs and preferences. With Super Tutor TV's comprehensive AC T prep resources, students can effectively prepare for the exam and work towards achieving their desired scores.
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Try it nowHighlights
- 35 students indicted for hiring others to take the ACT for them in 2011
- Security measures including photo ID requirements to prevent impersonation
- Test cancellation due to security breach and test leak in Hong Kong and South Korea in 2016
- Fine of six million won for stealing an ACT exam in South Korea
- Global Assessment Certificate Program sharing test questions in advance leading to suspicious scores
FAQ
A: Cheating on the ACT can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and potential imprisonment. It can also result in test cancellations for entire regions, affecting innocent students.
A: Security measures such as photo ID requirements and strict test administration protocols are put in place to prevent impersonation, test leaks, and unauthorized access to exam material.
A: Prep centers that have access to test questions in advance can create an unfair advantage for students, leading to suspicions of cheating and compromised test integrity.
A: Students can prepare for the ACT through legitimate means such as studying, practice exams, and seeking help from reputable test prep resources like Super Tutor TV.
A: Super Tutor TV offers an ACT prep video series, answer explanations for official practice exams, and tips for success on the ACT. Visit our website for more information.
See Also
Secret Tip for the ACT Math Section
Common Mistakes in Supplemental Essays for College Applications