GCSE coursework voided after answers leak online

COURSEWORK is set to be axed for computer science GCSES after the exam watchdog found answers to the assessments had been repeatedly leaked online.

It is feared that a large number of students may have been given undue assistance, with Ofqual finding dozens of examples where students were able to obtain answers on online forums and websites.

The problem is so severe that the regulator is preparing to void all coursework marks this summer, meaning the assessments – which count for 20 per cent of a student’s overall grade – will no longer count. Examples of malpractice included students posting the tasks on forums asking for help, with other members responding with detailed solutions and code.

The leaks affect two year groups, the first of which will sit their final exams in 2018. The watchdog fears that both students and teachers may have been involved, and that the issue could continue to blight the subject unless significant changes to the course are made. “Students seeking solutions to the tasks are in clear breach of the rules set by the exam boards,” a spokesman said. “If the malpractice is not detected and the student receives credit for work that is not their own, then they will receive a mark that does not reflect their true ability.

“In turn, this means other students who have followed the rules may be unfairly disadvantaged. Despite the exam boards’ efforts, we think this year’s nonexam assessment in GCSE computer science will be compromised.

“We think there is a real – and significant – risk that, left unchecked, results in next summer’s computer science GCSES will not provide a fair reflection of every student’s knowledge, skills and understanding.”