Irish universities move to oral exams to curb AI misuse
Irish higher education authorities are urging universities to rethink assessment methods as generative AI reshapes academic work. New guidance calls for a revival of oral exams, face-to-face verification and technology-free testing, arguing that human judgment is more reliable than automated detection tools in safeguarding academic integrity across Ireland’s universities.
Irish universities are being encouraged to reintroduce oral exams and traditional written assessments as part of a broader strategy to address the misuse of artificial intelligence in higher education. Guidance issued by Ireland’s Higher Education Authority (HEA) highlights growing concerns that generative AI tools are undermining the ability of lecturers to verify whether student work is genuinely original, placing academic integrity at risk across the sector.
Shifting assessment models
In a detailed report, the HEA calls on third-level institutions in Ireland to redesign how student performance is evaluated, moving away from an overreliance on take-home assignments that can easily be produced or enhanced using AI. One of the central recommendations is the systematic use of oral verification, requiring students to explain and defend their work in person as proof of authorship.
Limits of ai detection tools
The authority cautions against heavy dependence on AI-detection software, describing such systems as inconsistent and unreliable. Instead, it urges universities to prioritize direct engagement between staff and students, allowing academic judgment to take precedence. Under the proposed approach, oral assessments could override written submissions if doubts about authenticity arise.
Advertisement
Return to traditional exams
The report also suggests a partial revival of closed-book, in-person exams conducted without access to digital devices, an approach seen as a practical safeguard in the AI era. While acknowledging the risks of improper AI use, the HEA stresses that artificial intelligence should not be rejected outright.
Balancing integrity and innovation
Universities are encouraged to promote AI literacy among both students and academic staff, clearly defining when and how AI tools may be used in coursework. The HEA argues that transparent rules, dialogue-based integrity processes and fair evaluation standards are essential to ensuring that AI supports learning rather than undermines trust in Ireland’s higher education system.
Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.