Assessment Methods with Case Studies

Oral exams may serve as an independent assessment method or as a supplement to a written exam. In addition to individual oral exams, they can also be conducted simultaneously for a small group of students (3–4) or for a student team that worked on the same project task.

Why use oral exams?
They are authentic in certain professional fields (e.g., law, healthcare), enable verbal expression of knowledge, and reduce the risk of inauthentic answers.

Strategies:

• Standardise the procedure (time, number of questions, rubrics).
  
• Use familiar technology (e.g., the same platform used for consultations).
  
• Provide an informal “trial” question before formal assessment begins.
  
• If possible, include multiple assessors to increase objectivity.
  
• When combined with a written component, ask students to explain their solutions.

Example of use in higher education:

In the course Linear Algebra, after completing the written exam, students participate in a 30-minute group oral exam. A group of three students – who previously worked together on a project involving the application of matrices in economic models – jointly explains their solution process, while the instructor asks additional questions about the mathematical foundations and the interpretation of results. During the discussion, students are encouraged to complement each other’s answers and justify their reasoning, which allows assessment not only of knowledge but also of collaboration skills and the ability to communicate mathematical ideas.

 The exam is conducted in the classroom or via Zoom, and the assessment is based on criteria including accuracy and clarity of explanations, active participation of all members, application of mathematical concepts to new situations, and critical reflection on procedures.