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Monitoring and Sanctioning Cheating at School: What Works? Evidence from a National Evaluation Program

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  • Claudio Lucifora
  • Marco Tonello

Abstract

We exploit a randomized experiment in Italian schools to assess the causal effect of both an external monitoring program and a sanctions program on cheating behavior and absence rates. We find, in line with previous studies, that external monitoring is effective in deterring cheating occurring during and after the test. We show evidence of a strategic response to monitoring in terms of higher absence rates. Sanctions are not effective in reducing cheating, while they might have a discipline effect in decreasing absence rates. Both programs work better in institutional settings that make the potential loss of reputation costlier to the school.

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  • Claudio Lucifora & Marco Tonello, 2020. "Monitoring and Sanctioning Cheating at School: What Works? Evidence from a National Evaluation Program," Journal of Human Capital, University of Chicago Press, vol. 14(4), pages 584-616.
    • Handle: RePEc:ucp:jhucap:doi:10.1086/711760
    DOI: 10.1086/711760
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    JEL classification:

    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education
    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law

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