I. Introduction
A. Overview of IELTS exams taken at home
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam is one of the most widely recognized English language proficiency tests worldwide. It is commonly used by educational institutions, employers, and immigration agencies to evaluate the English language capabilities of non-native English speakers. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, IELTS now offers its exam online, allowing individuals to take the test from the comfort of their own homes.
How the exam works
The IELTS exam consists of four components: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The exam takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. The Listening, Reading, and Writing components are all taken together, while the Speaking component can be completed up to 7 days before or after the other components.
To take the exam at home, individuals will need a reliable computer, stable internet connection, and a webcam. They will also need to download the IELTS software and a secure browser to ensure exam security. Before the exam, candidates must complete a system check to ensure that their computer meets the required specifications.
How to prepare
Preparation is key to achieving success on the IELTS exam. There are many resources available to help individuals prepare for the exam, including practice tests, study guides, and online courses. Candidates can also take advantage of the IELTS coaching and tutoring services provided by many educational institutions and language centers.
During the exam
During the exam, candidates are monitored by trained proctors to ensure the integrity of the exam. Candidates are also required to follow strict rules, such as not using any unauthorized materials or receiving assistance from others. Failure to adhere to these rules can result in disqualification from the exam.
After the exam
After the exam, candidates can view their results online. The results are typically available within three to five business days. Candidates receive a score for each component of the exam, as well as an overall band score. The band score ranges from 1 to 9, with 9 being the highest score.
Implications of taking IELTS at home
The ability to take the IELTS exam at home has several implications for test-takers. Firstly, it provides more flexibility in scheduling the exam, as individuals can choose a time and date that suits their schedule. Additionally, taking the exam at home eliminates travel time and expenses, making it more convenient and affordable for many candidates.
However, taking the exam at home also involves new challenges and risks, such as ensuring a stable internet connection and minimizing distractions. Test-takers must also ensure that they have a quiet and suitable testing environment, free from interruptions.
B. Explanation of cheating and its importance in the context of IELTS exams
Cheating is a major concern in academic settings, particularly in standardized tests such as the IELTS exam. The IELTS, or International English Language Testing System, is a standardized test that measures proficiency in the English language for non-native speakers. The score obtained in the exam is often a key factor in determining eligibility for admission to educational programs, employment opportunities, and immigration requirements. As such, achieving a high score on the IELTS exam can be crucial for many individuals.
Cheating on the IELTS exam can have serious consequences for both the individual and the institutions involved. For the individual, it can result in the cancellation of the exam scores, as well as the potential loss of future opportunities. It can also lead to legal consequences, such as fines or imprisonment, particularly in cases where fraud or forgery has been committed.
For the institutions that administer the IELTS exam, cheating can undermine the validity and reliability of the test. It can also damage their reputation and make it more difficult for them to continue providing high-quality testing services in the future. Furthermore, cheating can harm genuine test-takers who have put in hard work and effort to prepare for the exam, as it can undermine the integrity of the exam itself.
To prevent cheating on the IELTS exam, testing centers have put in place various measures such as strict invigilation, the use of anti-cheating software, and the implementation of penalties for those found to be cheating. However, cheating can still occur, particularly in cases where individuals are desperate to achieve a high score and feel that they have no other options.
In order to avoid cheating on the IELTS exam, it is important for test-takers to prepare thoroughly and to practice the skills required for the exam. This can involve working with a tutor or taking a preparation course, as well as studying the test format and understanding the types of questions that will be asked. Test-takers should also aim to maintain a positive attitude and avoid succumbing to the pressure to cheat, even in cases where they feel that the stakes are high.
II. IELTS & Cheating: An Overview
A. Definition of cheating in IELTS exams
Cheating in IELTS exams is a practice that violates the rules and regulations set by the International English Language Testing System. It involves the use of unauthorized materials or assistance during the test, and it undermines the integrity and accuracy of the results. Cheating in IELTS exams can take different forms, including impersonation, cheating with the test materials, and colluding with others.
Impersonation
Impersonation involves a person taking the IELTS test on behalf of someone else. This practice is also known as exam substitution, and it is one of the most serious forms of cheating. Impersonation can occur when an individual is unable to take the test due to illness, disability, or travel. The person can hire someone, usually a friend or a professional exam-taker, to take the exam on their behalf. Impersonation is a criminal offense, and it can result in imprisonment or deportation from the country.
Cheating with the test materials
Cheating with the test materials involves accessing or using unauthorized materials during the exam. This can include using electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or smartwatches, to communicate with others or to access answers. Some test-takers may also bring printed notes or textbooks into the exam room, or they may hide them in their clothing or bags. Cheating with the test materials is a violation of the IELTS rules, and it can result in the nullification of the test results.
Colluding with others
Colluding with others involves working with other test-takers or examiners to obtain an unfair advantage in the exam. Collusion can take different forms, including sharing answers, copying or stealing test materials, or providing fake identification documents. Test-takers may also bribe examiners or security personnel to help them cheat. Collusion is a serious offense, and it can result in the cancellation of the test results, legal action, or even imprisonment.
B. Reasons behind cheating on IELTS exams
Cheating on exams has always been a problem in the education system, including IELTS exams, which are taken by millions of students worldwide each year. Cheating in IELTS exams is defined as any fraudulent activity aimed at obtaining a better score than the test taker deserves. Cheating methods vary from person to person, but the reasons behind cheating are consistent across the board. In this essay, we will explore the reasons behind why people cheat on IELTS exams.
One reason people cheat on IELTS exams is to gain a competitive edge over other students. Many students believe that a higher score on the IELTS exam can give them an advantage when applying for jobs, university, or even migration to other countries. With such high stakes, some students feel that cheating is a reasonable way to guarantee a higher score and improve their chances of getting into their desired university or job.
Another reason for cheating on IELTS exams is the pressure to score high. Many students need to achieve a certain score to meet the minimum requirements for universities or for immigration. This puts immense pressure on the students to perform well on the IELTS exam. In such circumstances, cheating can seem like the only way to achieve the desired result.
Additionally, some students are not fluent in English, which makes the IELTS exam difficult for them. These students may not have had access to quality English education, or they may not have had the opportunity to practice their English skills extensively. As a result, they may feel that cheating is their only chance to pass the exam.
Peer influence is another reason why people cheat in IELTS exams. Some students are under peer pressure to perform well on the exam. This pressure can come from friends, family, or even the community. Students who feel that they will disappoint those around them by not scoring high may cheat to meet the expectations of others.
Another reason for cheating in IELTS exams is the lack of confidence. Some students lack confidence in their ability, even though they have prepared for the exam. This lack of confidence can be due to past academic failures, lack of English proficiency or other personal reasons. These students may cheat to ensure that they pass the exam and do not experience failure again.
Finally, some students cheat because they view cheating as a simple and effective way to overcome a challenge. They may not understand the severity of cheating or believe that there are any negative consequences for cheating. Such students may not believe that cheating is morally wrong or believe that everyone cheats on exams.
In conclusion, people cheat on IELTS exams for various reasons, including gaining a competitive advantage, the pressure to score high, lack of English proficiency, peer influence, lack of confidence, and viewing cheating as a simple solution. The consequences of cheating are severe and include being banned from taking the IELTS exam for a period of time, jeopardizing your future academic and career opportunities, and tarnishing your integrity. To eliminate cheating, students should receive adequate English education, seek guidance and support, and believe in their abilities. Additionally, strict monitoring and surveillance should be in place to prevent cheating and ensure fairness for all test takers.
C. Comparison between IELTS exams taken at home and those taken in a test center
The traditional IELTS test center format involves taking the test in a secure and monitored environment with other test-takers. The test consists of four modules – listening, reading, writing, and speaking – which are completed in one sitting with specific time limits for each. In contrast, the IELTS Home format allows test-takers to take the test from the comfort of their own home using a computer with a webcam or a smartphone. The four modules are completed separately at different times.
One advantage of taking the IELTS test at a test center is that it offers a more standardized and controlled testing environment. This means that all test-takers are taking the same test under the same conditions, which ensures fairness and reliability. Furthermore, test-takers can ask the invigilator to clarify any doubts during the test, and they can interact with fellow test-takers before and after the test. Additionally, the test center format provides the opportunity for test-takers to practice social skills, such as managing their emotions and interacting with others.
On the other hand, the IELTS Home format provides flexibility and convenience. Test-takers can choose the day and time of the test that suits them best, and they do not need to travel to a test center, which can save time and money. Moreover, the test can be taken using a familiar device and in a familiar environment, which can help reduce test anxiety. Additionally, the test-taker can take the four modules at different times, which can make it easier to manage their time and prepare appropriately.
However, there are also some drawbacks to the IELTS Home format. Firstly, it requires a stable internet connection, which can be a problem for test-takers in some areas with poor internet connectivity. Secondly, test-takers need to have a suitable device, such as a computer or smartphone, which can exclude some people who do not have access to such devices. Moreover, the lack of a live invigilator can raise concerns about cheating or other forms of test misconduct. Finally, taking the test at home can be distracting because of interruptions from family members or pets.
To summarize, both the traditional IELTS test center format and the new IELTS Home format have their advantages and disadvantages. The test center format provides a standardized and controlled environment, where test-takers can interact with others and practice social skills, while the IELTS Home format is more flexible and convenient, allowing test-takers to choose the time and place that suits them best. Ultimately, the choice between the two formats depends on the individual’s preferences and circumstances.
III. Research on Cheating on IELTS exams taken at home
A. Prevalence of cheating on IELTS exams taken at home
Cheating is an act that has been traditionally associated with examination halls, where students often attempt to cheat the evaluation system to score high marks. There are various ways that students can cheat in IELTS home-based exams. For example, they may use unauthorized notes or materials, have someone else take the test for them, or receive answers from a third party. These activities are a violation of the rules and regulations of the IELTS.
To prevent cheating, IELTS has established strict guidelines for the at-home test. The test-taker is required to be physically present in a quiet room with no other people present. The room must be adequately lit, and the test taker can only have one computer screen. Additionally, test-takers are not permitted to use any prohibited materials during the test, and those caught cheating will be disqualified. These strict guidelines have been put in place to ensure that the candidates are evaluated fairly and their results are valid.
However, despite these measures, there is still a possibility of cheating. For example, a test-taker could have someone else take the test on their behalf or receive answers from an unauthorized source. Additionally, some applicants may try to bribe their invigilator to look the other way while they cheat. It is challenging to monitor the test-taker’s activities throughout the test, and there is always a possibility of lapse in supervision.
To counter cheating in the at-home IELTS exam, the IELTS organization has implemented several measures. Firstly, the exam is delivered via a computer-based test delivery system that records the entire test session. This system records the candidate’s actions and activities, and it can detect if the test-taker is attempting to use unauthorized materials or if someone else is taking the test for the candidate.
Secondly, a remote invigilator monitors the test-taker throughout the test. The invigilator uses a video link to check on the candidate and ensure that they are following the right protocols. If the invigilator suspects cheating, they can intervene and stop the test immediately. This system has been successful in detecting most attempts by candidates to cheat the test.
Thirdly, the IELTS organization has implemented a biometric identification system for at-home testing. This system identifies the test-taker’s identity through facial recognition technology and compares it to the registration details. This system ensures that the candidate sitting for the test is the same person who registered for the exam.
Despite these measures, there have been reports of cheating in at-home IELTS exams. The cheating cases have typically occurred through the use of fake identities or by renting a professional to take the exam on behalf of the candidate. Cheating in IELTS at-home exams is unethical, and it can have severe consequences on the test-taker’s career prospects.
In conclusion, cheating in IELTS at-home exams is a real concern. It is difficult to monitor the test-taker’s activities comprehensively throughout the test. However, the IELTS organization has done its best to implement measures to prevent cheating by implementing a remote invigilator, biometric identification, and advanced test delivery systems. It is important for all candidates to follow the set guidelines and the rules of the exam to ensure that their results fairly represent their English proficiency.
B. Types of cheating in IELTS exams taken at home
1. Using unauthorized resources: Most online tests require students to sign an agreement that they will not use any unauthorized resources or materials during the exam. But some test takers might still use their phones, tablets, or other electronic devices to Google answers, access dictionaries or translation tools, or ask someone for help. Test takers might also cheat using books, notes, homework, or other resources, which are strictly prohibited.
2. Getting help from others: Test takers might cheat by getting someone else to take the test on their behalf or to help them during the exam. They might also use online tutoring services, which can offer coaching or complete the test for them. Test takers might also ask family members, friends, or colleagues to provide answers, which can be conveyed via video, phone, or message.
3. Impersonation: Some test takers might try to cheat by pretending to be someone else. For example, they might ask a family member or friend to take the test for them by providing their identity document. They might also use fake documents, such as passports, driving licenses, or ID cards.
4. Using unfair means: Test takers might use a range of unfair means to cheat, including copying and pasting answers from websites or textbooks, using a second device or monitor to view unauthorized materials, or sending messages to other test takers. These tactics can help them solve difficult questions or improve their scores, but they can be easily detected by the testing software used in IELTS exam, resulting in account suspension or other severe actions.
5. Modifying the exam environment: Another type of cheating is modifying the exam environment to gain an unfair advantage. Test takers might adjust the lighting, camera angle, or display resolution to make it easier for them to see or read the test questions, or they might use multiple monitors to monitor the exam prompts and answers.
6. Hacking: It’s unlikely but possible for test takers to hack into the IELTS system to gain access to unauthorised information, change the test questions, or manipulate the answers.
7. Submitting pre-recorded answers: With the increasing use of AI-powered technologies in online exams, some test takers have been caught submitting pre-recorded answers during the Speaking test. By recording scripted responses to commonly asked questions, they can obtain higher scores without any actual competence in English.
C. Analysis of the data on IELTS exam cheating
According to a report by the British Council, IELTS has adopted various measures to identify and prevent cheating, but instances of cheating still occur. For example, in 2018, the British Council reported that 62% of their cases of exam malpractice involved IELTS. Similarly, the Australian government’s Department of Home Affairs reported that around 35% of the 5,000 cases of visa fraud investigated in 2018 involved IELTS. These figures indicate that cheating is a significant problem and needs to be addressed.
One of the causes of IELTS exam cheating is the demand for high scores for immigration and university admissions. Many individuals may feel that they are not good enough in English to pass the exam without cheating. In some countries, parents and educational institutions put immense pressure on students to obtain high scores, leading some to resort to cheating. In other cases, people may view cheating as a shortcut to achieving their goals, such as obtaining a work visa.
Another cause of cheating is the lack of strict regulation and monitoring of test centers. Test centers may have inadequate security measures, such as poorly trained invigilators, lack of CCTV cameras or audio recording devices, and insufficient checks on identification documents. This makes it easier for individuals to cheat without getting caught. Moreover, some test centers are located in areas with low government oversight, making it easier for test takers to bribe staff to cheat on their behalf.
To address the issue of IELTS cheating, there are several solutions. One solution is to increase the number of test centers and invigilators, particularly in regions where there is a high demand for the exam. This would increase the accessibility to the exam and improve monitoring to prevent cheating. Another solution would be to improve test security measures, such as strengthening identification checks, increasing the number of CCTV cameras, and conducting audio recordings during the exam.
Another solution would be to educate test takers about the negative impacts of cheating. Test takers should be made aware of the consequences of cheating, such as the possibility of a lifetime ban from taking IELTS or the risk of visa rejection. Educational institutions and parents should also be informed about the importance of ethics and integrity, and encouraged to support students in their English language learning journey. This could result in more individuals taking the exam honestly and ultimately improving their language skills.
In conclusion, cheating on the IELTS exam is a problematic issue that must be addressed. The causes of cheating include the demand for high scores, lack of regulation, and monitoring of test centers. Possible solutions include increasing the number of test centers and invigilators, strengthening test security measures, and educating test takers about the negative impacts of cheating. Ultimately, it is important to promote a culture of honesty and integrity, both in educational institutions and in society as a whole.
IV. Consequences of Cheating on IELTS Exams taken at home
A. Penalty for cheating on IELTS exams
1. Results Withheld
If an applicant is found to have cheated in an IELTS exam, their results will be withheld. This means that their score will not be released, and they will not be able to use that result for any purpose. This can jeopardize their academic or immigration aspirations, and they may have to repeat the exam.
2. Banned
Any applicant found guilty of cheating in IELTS exams can be banned from taking the exam again. This can have far-reaching consequences, especially for those who need the exam score for educational or immigration purposes.
3. Legal Action
Cheating in IELTS exams is considered a criminal offense in many countries, and legal action can be taken against the offender. This can result in severe penalties and long-term consequences.
4. Immigration Consequences
Those who cheat in IELTS exams can face immigration consequences such as denial of visas, deportation or exclusion from entry into a country. This can affect the student’s future plans and opportunities.
5. Professional Consequences
Cheating in IELTS exams can also have professional consequences. Many industries require that employees have a good IELTS exam score as proof of their English language proficiency. A cheating record can put an applicant’s employment prospects in jeopardy and can potentially lead to job loss.
B. Disadvantages of cheating on IELTS Exams overall
It is common knowledge that the IELTS exam is a significant requirement for admission to most academic and/or professional institutions worldwide. Since the exam is highly competitive, many people tend to resort to cheating in a bid to acquire better scores. However, cheating during an IELTS exam has several disadvantages.
First and foremost, cheating on IELTS exams is illegal and can result in serious legal issues. In most countries, cheating is considered a criminal offense, and individuals caught in the act could face imprisonment, fines or permanent deportation. Additionally, if the institution where the exam was taken discovers that a candidate has used fraudulent methods to manipulate their score, the institution can report the matter to the relevant authorities, which could result in a longer prison term and a criminal reputation.
Another disadvantage of cheating on IELTS exams is that it presents a false impression of the candidate’s academic and linguistic competency. Individuals who cheat may receive high scores that do not reflect their actual language proficiency or cognitive abilities. As a result, when the individual gets admission to universities, colleges or work environments, they are likely to struggle and fail to meet the expected academic and work standards. This eventually leads to frustration, incompetence, and loss of confidence in an individual’s academic and professional capabilities.
Furthermore, cheating on IELTS exams leads to a lack of skills needed for future academic and professional endeavors. IELTS exams are designed to assess the candidate’s language proficiency, which is essential in the global job market. Being able to read, write and speak fluently in English or any other language is a fundamental skill required in today’s world. By cheating, candidates miss the chance to develop important skills, which makes it difficult to succeed in their future academic and professional endeavors.
Another disadvantage of cheating on IELTS exams is that it undermines the integrity of the IELTS exam system. IELTS exams are designed to evaluate the language proficiency of candidates, and universities, colleges, and prospective employers rely on the scores to evaluate the competency of an applicant. When individuals cheat on the exam, it undermines the integrity of the IELTS exam system, which negatively impacts the credibility of scores obtained by honest candidates.
Finally, cheating on IELTS exams has a psychological impact on the individual. Candidates who cheat often experience anxiety, fear, and stress during the exam. They are worried about being caught, which hinders their ability to focus on the exam. Individuals who cheat during the IELTS exams also have to live with the guilt and shame that comes with cheating. This guilt and shame tarnish the individual’s academic and personal reputation, which lasts a lifetime.
In conclusion, cheating on IELTS exams is undesirable, and individuals who participate in such activities expose themselves to various disadvantages. Cheating not only puts an individual in legal jeopardy, but it also presents a false impression of the individual’s academic and linguistic competency. Students who cheat miss the crucial skills needed for their academic and professional endeavors, undermine the integrity of the IELTS exam system, and experience psychological effects like guilt, shame, and anxiety. To avoid these disadvantages, individuals who plan to take the IELTS exam must prepare adequately, practice, and seek professional assistance if necessary, instead of resorting to cheating.
C. The importance of ethical exam-taking
Ethical IELTS exam-taking is essential because it ensures fairness and accuracy in the evaluation process. When taking the IELTS exam, candidates are expected to adhere to a set of rules and regulations that have been established to guarantee that everyone is tested on the same level playing field. Any action that compromises the test’s integrity can lead to inaccurate scores and jeopardize the entire testing process. Therefore, ethical exam-taking practices must be followed to avoid any potential issues that could arise during the evaluation process.
Another crucial aspect of ethical IELTS exam-taking is honesty. Candidates must be truthful in their responses to the test questions and provide accurate information regarding their background and qualifications. Any form of cheating or dishonest behaviour not only damages the reputation of the candidate, but it can also harm the IELTS test’s reputation as a reliable indicator of English proficiency. Even small actions such as getting help from someone during the test or using unauthorized materials can negatively impact the candidate’s overall score and the credibility of the IELTS exam as a whole.
Ethical IELTS exam-taking also plays a key role in maintaining the safety and security of the test. The IELTS exam is highly regulated, and unauthorized access to the test’s content and materials is strictly prohibited. Individuals who engage in any form of unauthorized activity not only face legal consequences but can also be disqualified from taking the IELTS test altogether. Ethical exam-taking practices, such as respecting the confidentiality of the test and not divulging any information about the test materials or questions, help protect the IELTS exam’s safety and ensure that the test’s content remains confidential.
Finally, ethical IELTS exam-taking is essential because it builds trust and confidence in the proficiency testing system. By following ethical exam-taking practices, candidates demonstrate their integrity and commitment to having their language proficiency properly and accurately assessed. Results that are obtained through ethical testing methods are more reliable and have greater value in the eyes of employers, educational institutions, and other organizations that rely on the IELTS test results to make important decisions. The reputation of the IELTS test relies on the ethical and fair practices of its candidates, and the importance of upholding these standards cannot be overstated.
V. Conclusion
A. Implications for policy and future research
One of the most significant implications of cheating on the IELTS is the impact it has on policy. Many countries use the test results as a key component of their immigration policies, with individuals required to achieve a certain score in order to gain entry or apply for citizenship. When cheating occurs, the validity of the test results is called into question, which can result in policy changes or a loss of faith in the test as a valid measure of English proficiency. This can have implications on a larger scale, potentially leading to a shift in policies related to language requirements for immigration, study, and work.
In addition to policy implications, cheating can also have an impact on future research related to the IELTS. When the test results are compromised, it can be difficult to assess the reliability and validity of the test itself. Researchers rely on the consistency and accuracy of the test results to make conclusions about English proficiency, which can have implications for the development of language policies and programs. If the IELTS is viewed as unreliable due to cheating, this can have a ripple effect on research and policy decisions, potentially leading to a lack of confidence in the test and its results.
Another implication of cheating on the IELTS is the impact it can have on individuals who engage in the behavior. While cheating may seem like a shortcut to achieving the required score, it can have significant consequences. Individuals who are caught cheating may face legal consequences, such as being deported or being barred from entering the country in the future. In addition, cheating can also damage a person’s reputation and future prospects, both in terms of their ability to enter the country or apply for citizenship, as well as their career prospects.
To address the issue of cheating on the IELTS, there are several strategies that can be employed. First and foremost, there must be a focus on prevention, with measures in place to detect and deter cheating before it occurs. This can include increased security measures, such as increased identification checks and the use of technology to monitor exam rooms. Additionally, there must be consequences for individuals who engage in cheating, including legal consequences and the potential loss of future opportunities.
Finally, there is a need for ongoing research to examine the validity and reliability of the IELTS, particularly in light of cheating. Researchers must continue to test the test under different conditions and with different populations to ensure that it remains a valid measure of English proficiency. Furthermore, there is a need for ongoing research to identify the factors that contribute to cheating on the IELTS, in order to develop effective prevention strategies.
B. Final thoughts on Cheating on IELTS exams taken at home
In conclusion, cheating on IELTS exams taken at home is unethical and unfair on those who have taken the time and effort to study and prepare for the exam in the right way. Cheating not only undermines the integrity of the exam but also negates the purpose of the exam, which is to test an individual’s level of proficiency in English language skills.
Cheating does not pave a way for success as, in the long run, cheating or using dishonest means in any aspect of life will reflect poorly on one’s character and leads to a negative impact on one’s credibility. It’s necessary to emphasize the need for students to adhere to ethical conduct and academic honesty.
It is equally important for IELTS examiners and invigilators to set up measures to monitor and detect any suspicious activities during the exams. The use of technology can also help prevent cheating, such as the use of software that can detect cheating indicators such as multiple faces in front of the screen; movement during the exam, and scanning of unauthorized material.
Moreover, it is essential to provide fair and equal opportunities for all candidates taking the IELTS exam, regardless of their location or socio-economic status. There must be measures in place to bridge the technological gaps that may exist in certain areas, as well as alternative testing arrangements for candidates who may face difficulties with the online format.
As a global community, we must collectively aim to ensure that the education system remains just and honest. Policies and laws must be put in place to prevent cheating and academic dishonesty, with severe consequences for those found in contravention. Students who cheat and those who are caught must be held accountable.
Lastly, to avoid situations where students are tempted to cheat on the IELTS exam or any other exam, there must be a gradual and systematic overhaul and reorientation of the education system in a way that eliminates the pressure and stress that comes with academic performance. The focus must be on learning rather than competition, and incentives such as scholarships, awards, etc., must be based on a more holistic assessment of students and not just academic performance.
The IELTS exam is a vital tool for measuring the English language proficiency of candidates who wish to study, work or migrate to countries where English is the language of communication. Cheating on IELTS exams taken at home hurts not only the exam system but also the collective public good that comes from a society of individuals who communicate fluently and confidently. It is essential to uphold the integrity of the IELTS exam system by encouraging ethical conduct, transparency and fairness to all those taking the exam.