Exams often bring a wave of stress for students, leading some to consider sneaky ways to get through. However, educators have a crucial role in ensuring a fair testing environment. At Visayas State University (VSU), one instructor's creative idea has turned heads: personalized headcovers for students during exams.
A Creative Twist on Exam Integrity
Junrey Goles, an instructor from the Department of Arts, Languages, and Literature (DALL), sought a fresh approach to deter cheating as exams shifted back to classrooms this year. His solution? Ask students to design their own headcovers. What started as a tentative suggestion quickly transformed into a colorful spectacle, with students donning everything from helmets to custom cardboard boxes, and even leafy disguises.
Goles emphasized, “My goal was to prevent cheating while encouraging creativity.” This light-hearted task not only helped maintain exam integrity but also allowed students to express themselves in unexpected ways.
Support from the Community
Goles’ initiative sparked a wave of enthusiasm beyond the classroom, with students and faculty responding positively. Rachel Saligo, a senior, expressed her disappointment at missing out on the fun, saying, “It’s such a clever idea; I would have loved to join in.”
Dr. Maria Vanessa Gabunada, head of the DALL department, backed Goles’ unconventional approach, highlighting the importance of student comfort and exam integrity. Dr. Glenn Pajares, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, praised the diversity in teaching methods, noting, “Every teacher has their unique style. It’s essential to allow them the freedom to try different strategies.”
Ultimately, Goles’ headcover experiment not only helped reduce instances of cheating but also fostered a sense of community and creativity among students. While no solution can entirely eliminate academic dishonesty, this inventive approach serves as a reminder that accountability and creativity can go hand in hand in education.
