Question

You take an unapproved calculator into your Mathematics exam. The calculator has CAS functionality, which is not allowed as it can provide an advantage. You reason that it’s your teacher’s responsibility to make sure you’ve got the correct calculator. is this disclosing or receiving information about assessment.

Answer 1

Short answer: No — your reasoning is incorrect. Whether this counts as "disclosing or receiving information about assessment" depends on what you do with the calculator, but bringing an unapproved CAS-capable device is normally treated as possession of an unauthorized aid and — if you use it in the exam — as receiving unauthorized assistance.

Clarification and nuance:
- Disclosing information about an assessment = giving others exam questions/answers or otherwise sharing assessment content. Bringing a CAS calculator is not disclosure unless you share exam material with someone.
- Receiving information about an assessment = obtaining answers, solution steps, or other assistance that you are not permitted to have during the exam. If you use the CAS functions to solve exam questions, that is receiving unauthorized assistance.
- Possession of an unapproved device: many institutions’ rules treat merely having an unapproved calculator in an exam (even if unused) as a breach or an exam offence. Rules vary, but you cannot rely on the teacher to check your equipment — you are usually responsible for following the permitted equipment list.

What you should do:
- Check your school/exam board’s permitted calculator list and rules now.
- If you already have the device with you at an exam, notify the invigilator immediately and follow their instructions.
- Don’t use the CAS functions during the exam and, if required, remove or disable them as directed.

Consequences can include loss of marks, cancelled scripts, or disciplinary action, so it’s best to follow the stated rules and not assume the teacher will police your equipment for you.