Decision-making – Courses of Action for examination malpractice Statement: A large number of students have been caught using unfair means during the final-year degree examination. Courses of Action: I. All these students should be debarred permanently from appearing for any examination conducted by the authority. II. The guardians of these students should be called by the authority to inform them that any such behaviour in future will not be tolerated.

Introduction / Context:
Academic integrity violations require proportionate, corrective actions that deter future misconduct while ensuring due process and fairness.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Many students were caught cheating.
• No details about the nature/extent per individual, prior offences, or institutional policy for penalties.
• Authority seeks to prevent recurrence.

Concept / Approach:
Penalties should be fair, consistent, and legally defensible. Permanent debarment for all, without case-by-case assessment, is excessive and may violate principles of proportionality and due process. Parental/guardian involvement and warnings can reinforce deterrence and rehabilitation.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Institutions typically convene discipline committees, evaluate evidence, and apply escalating sanctions. Communication with guardians is common for deterrence and support.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• I follows / Either / Both: I is overbroad and lacks procedural fairness.
• Neither: II is a constructive, reasonable step.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating deterrence with maximal punishment; overlooking due process and educational remediation.

Final Answer:
Only II follows