Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible influence of students’ self-efficacy on
examination malpractices among undergraduate students in Universities within Kiambu County.
The objectives of this study includes; to analyze the influence of students’ past performance
component of self-efficacy. The data collected from the pilot test was used to compute Cronbach’s
alpha reliability coefficient which was found to be r = 0.86, hence the instruments were reliable. The
researcher ensured the validity of the instruments by consulting peers and experts from the
department of educational psychology, Mount Kenya University. Dependability of qualitative data
was ensured through adoption of suitable research method, pre-testing and in-depth interviews.
Credibility of the instrument was ensured by triangulating data obtained and creation of research
questionnaires based on research objectives. The quantitative data obtained was analyzed using
SPSS version 21, and was presented in descriptive statistics inform of frequencies and
percentages. Inferential statistics in form of linear regression was used to test the relationship
between independent and dependent variables in each objective. Linear Regression Results were
Original Research Article
Peter et al.; JESBS, 34(12): 1-12, 2021; Article no.JESBS.77283
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presented in model summary tables, ANOVA tables and coefficient tables. Content analysis
method was employed to critically analyze qualitative data and presented in textual form. On the
first objective, the study revealed that students’ past performance slightly influenced examination
malpractices among undergraduate students. The study showed that students’ emotional
experiences significantly influenced examination malpractices. Based on the finding, students’ selfefficacy has significant influence on examination malpractices. To address the issue of students’
self-efficacy on examination malpractices, a multi-sectoral approach would be needed, that may
involve all the stake holders, that is, the larger society, the government and the students. The
incorporation of modern technology in entire process of examination administration and certification
would be important in reducing the examination malpractices. An examination policy shift in
universities would be necessary too.
