Embracing Authentic Learning: The Rise of Oral Exams in Higher Education
In higher education, professors are increasingly turning to oral exams to ensure authentic learning in response to concerns about generative artificial intelligence (AI). Chris Schaffer, a biomedical engineering instructor at Cornell University, has replaced traditional assessments with oral defenses, emphasizing direct communication without technology or writing materials. This shift reflects a broader trend among educators adapting assessment methods due to the AI-driven landscape.
At the University of Pennsylvania, Emily Hammer, an associate professor in Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures, has integrated oral exams alongside written papers to address concerns about students' cognitive skills and creativity. Hammer prohibits AI use in her classes, emphasizing the importance of facing instructors in oral defenses to reveal understanding gaps. This move towards in-person assessments marks a significant change at Penn, with faculty workshops facilitating the transition.
Oral exams have historically been less common in American undergraduate education compared to European models like Oxbridge. However, the challenges of online education during the COVID-19 pandemic have prompted some institutions to experiment with oral components to combat cheating, especially with the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Huihui Qi, an engineering professor at the University of California, San Diego, is leading a study on scaling oral exams, sparking interest across universities.
New York University (NYU) is blending traditional oral assessments with innovative approaches. Clay Shirky, NYU's vice provost for AI and technology in education, highlights the importance of personal interaction in confirming student comprehension. NYU incorporates an AI-powered oral exam created by Panos Ipeirotis, allowing students to test from home with immediate feedback and guidance.
While the implementation of oral exams offers students a chance to demonstrate understanding, challenges remain. Feedback from students varies, with some appreciating the AI-driven interaction and others finding it awkward. Despite concerns, educators believe oral exams can cultivate essential skills for academic and professional success.
The rise of oral assessments extends beyond engineering and business departments to the humanities, where concerns about students' intellectual rigor are prevalent. Educators emphasize the importance of challenging mental exercises for skill development. Cornell University has integrated oral assessments in various departments, with professors adopting different approaches like Socratic questioning and mock interviews to promote accountability and understanding.
Student responses to oral exams have been largely positive, with many appreciating the focused time with instructors to enhance their ability to articulate technical concepts. In a landscape influenced by AI, educators see oral exams as a way to preserve learning integrity and foster genuine understanding.