ABCs to ATMs - The Case for Paying Students to Learn

In a world where academic integrity is often compromised, Outstanda takes a firm stand against cheating. The stakes are higher than ever, given that students aren’t just earning grades – they’re earning scholarship money. This article outlines Outstanda’s zero-tolerance policy on cheating, the technology and measures in place to prevent it, and the penalties for those found guilty.

The Gravity of the Issue

Cheating is a pervasive issue in educational settings worldwide. However, in an ecosystem like Outstanda, where learning is directly linked to financial rewards, the implications of cheating are far more severe. It’s not just an academic issue; it’s financial fraud.

Zero Tolerance: What It Means

Outstanda’s zero-tolerance policy is straightforward: if you cheat, you lose the ability to earn income through the platform permanently. While exceptions may be considered for younger students, the general rule applies across the board. In an environment where assessments can be retaken as many times as needed, there is no justification for cheating.

The Role of AI and Human Proctors

Preventing cheating is a multi-faceted effort that combines the capabilities of AI with the vigilance of human proctors. Advanced algorithms monitor student behavior during exams, flagging any irregularities for further review. Multiple camera angles are also utilized to ensure the integrity of the exam setting. Human proctors, trained to recognize signs of cheating, supervise the examination process. Outstanda assessment centers will use multiple identity verification measures as well as proctoring tools to be thorough. 

Consequences for Cheating

The repercussions are severe, not only for students but also for any human, including proctors, found to be aiding in cheating. Proctors will lose their employment and their ability to earn through the platform. Students would lose the ability to earn when learning. Money they would have earned simply stays in the school account for the next student.

Smaller Assessments and Lower Stakes

International cheating is often because of the high stakes for large, important exams. This puts a lot of pressure on students and they sometimes look for advantages through cheating. But when students have multiple small assessments weekly, the risk is not worth it, and the pressure is lower because student’s can retake the assessment as needed.

The Best Policy: Transparency

Outstanda believes in transparent education. Therefore, students are provided with all the necessary materials and guidelines to prepare for an assessment adequately. In fact, you do not need to log in to have access to most learning materials. It is truly open to all. 

Given that exams can be retaken until mastery is demonstrated, the onus is on the student to prepare diligently, negating any reason to cheat. 

Cheating undermines the very essence of what Outstanda aims to achieve – an equitable, efficient, and trustworthy educational ecosystem. Therefore, the zero-tolerance policy on cheating is non-negotiable. Outstanda is committed to maintaining the highest levels of integrity to ensure that the platform remains a reliable avenue for genuine learning and financial empowerment.