Researchers from New York’s Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) have developed a method for discouraging remote students from colluding with other remote students to obtain test answers via phone or the internet.

The testing strategy, called distanced online testing, was designed to reduce the incidence of students discussing test answers via phone or internet with other students while remote learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reportedly, the system, using discrete optimization, minimizes the opportunity for students to discuss test questions via internet or phone by rolling the questions out at different intervals based on a student’s level of skill and mastery of the subject based on previous performance.

For instance, higher performing students — identified via previously determined competencies including SAT scores, grade point average, mid-term scores and all other available performance data — might receive their test questions after lower performing students have answered their questions.

During testing of the method, the researchers reported that points acquired via collusion with other students were significantly reduced. As such, the team is investigating the possibility of turning the method into a testing platform.

The findings appear in the journal npj Science of Learning.