Rediscovering Oral Examinations in the Age of AI: An Alternative Assessment Approach

Oral examinations have long been a cornerstone of assessment in European higher education, yet they remain uncommon in US academic institutions. While American education has traditionally favored standardized testing for reasons of efficiency, perceived objectivity, and practicality, these methods are increasingly challenged by a combination of two modern developments: the rise of online course delivery and the advancement of AI technologies that can compromise test integrity.

As educators seek assessment methods that remain effective in this changing landscape, oral examinations offer a compelling alternative worthy of reconsideration. This presentation explores how oral examinations—a time-tested assessment method that continues to be the standard in professional contexts such as job interviews and apprenticeships—can be effectively reimagined for contemporary educational settings. The session will present both the benefits and challenges of integrating oral examinations into course assessment, along with practical, low-cost strategies for piloting and gradual implementation that are accessible to educators across the STEM disciplines.