Introduction to Interactive Oral Assessment

As generative AI reshapes what traditional assessments can credibly measure, this workshop introduces Interactive Oral Assessment (IOA) as an authentic, evidence-based alternative built around structured professional conversations. Participants will explore what sets an IOA apart from a viva voce or post-presentation Q&A, examine scenario-based examples from across disciplines, and begin designing their own IOA aligned with learning outcomes and industry requirements. The session also tackles practical considerations: rubric design, effective question prompts, preparing students and staff, and operationalising IOAs at scale.

This workshop is open to educators and teaching and learning staff from across the higher education sector.

Learning objectives

Engaging with this workshop will help you to:

• Distinguish Interactive Oral Assessment from other oral assessment formats (e.g., viva voce, Q&A) using its core design factors.

• Design a scenario-based IOA task that aligns with course learning outcomes and incorporates meaningful differentiation.

• Craft rubric-aligned question prompts that scaffold students toward deeper demonstration of learning during the conversation.

• Identify key steps for preparing students, calibrating assessors, and operationalising IOAs within their own teaching context.

Before the workshop

• View this interactive intro to Interactive Oral Assessment as articulated by originators from Griffith University

• Reflect on your current course and assessment design for opportunities where IOA could make a difference

During the workshop

• Slides and other resources will be shared in the workshop