In preparation for this oral exam, students are given a list of 20-30 questions from across the course (these questions cover all of the significant theorems covered over the semester). On the day of the assessment, the student is randomly assigned 2 of these questions and given 30-45 minutes to write their answers (answers consist of the statement of the theorem and the proof) on the blank paper provided. Students are observed whilst writing. Each student is then questioned for 15 minutes, and this oral component is video recorded. They are first questioned about their written responses and must defend their answers (staff highlight any mistakes or gaps in their responses). They are then asked further questions about other aspects of the course.
Details
- CLASS SIZE
- 20-40, 40-60
- CLASS LEVEL
- Post-graduate
- ASSESSMENT SECURITY
- High security
- TIME REQUIREMENTS
- Medium time
- CONDITIONS
- Identity verified, Time limited
Advantages
This assessment is identity verified and covers all the course material so therefore allows a reliable measure of student learning.
Challenges
Two course staff (may include tutors such as graduate students) must assess each student which takes considerable resources. However, marking is done on the spot so there are therefore trade-offs with the more common methods of assessment that require time for marking (e.g. assignments or exam scripts). May not be possible in larger courses (over 40 students) as it may take too much time to be viable.
Tips for implementation
To ensure this assessment is adequately moderated two staff are needed.
Learning outcomes
A complete and comprehensive knowledge of the theoretical basis of the course. A deep understanding of the important theoretical constructions featured in the course. An ability to link theory with applications and analyse examples.
How it supports academic integrity
This is an identity-verified assessment. Students are observed completing their written responses, and then must also demonstrate their knowledge in a conversation with course staff.
Associate Professor Artem Pulemotov
a.pulemotov@uq.edu.au
Dr Pulemotov holds a Bachelor's degree from Kyiv University and a PhD from Cornell University. His research is in the field of geometric analysis. He was a Dickson Instructor at the University of Chicago before joining the School of Mathematics and Physics at UQ as a lecturer in 2012. Find out more