International Baccalaureate exams body to probe leaks after finding evidence of cheating; Hong Kong pupils among global chorus of outrage
- Small number of pupils have engaged in ‘time zone cheating’ and practice not widespread, IB says, although Post finds papers downloaded over 45,000 times
- Hong Kong lawmaker calls for more action to ensure fairness for students
The authority managing the ongoing International Baccalaureate (IB) exams will launch an investigation into test paper questions and answers being leaked online after it found evidence of cheating, but a Hong Kong lawmaker has called for more action to ensure fairness for students.
The IB said on Sunday that it discovered a small number of students had engaged in “time zone cheating” and there was “no evidence” the practice was widespread, although the Post found the materials had been downloaded more than 45,000 times.
The leaks have prompted widespread outrage among students, including those currently sitting the exams in Hong Kong, with some calling for the tests to be cancelled or sat again.
“We have identified the source of this activity and are taking appropriate steps to hold those responsible accountable,” the organisation said.
“Where we have identified students, the IB will open a formal investigation for malpractice, and students may receive no marks for their examinations or no grade for the relevant subject.”
Time zone cheating occurs when students who have finished their exams share their recollection of questions to help others in regions who are yet to take the tests. It is prohibited under the IB’s academic integrity policy.