Conducting oral examinations – ensuring they are professional, fair and confident

The oral examination is a demanding yet versatile examination format in higher education. It enables a nuanced assessment of subject knowledge, argumentative skills and reflective competence – yet at the same time presents lecturers with particular conceptual and practical challenges.

In this highly practical workshop, participants will engage intensively with the design of oral examinations. The focus is on practical insights into preparation, delivery and follow-up, as well as the precise adaptation of courses to this examination format. Key aspects such as the development of suitable examination questions, the structuring of examination discussions and the design of an appropriate examination setting are worked through and tested in concrete terms.

Particular emphasis is placed on dealing with typical uncertainties and challenging examination situations. Participants reflect on their own examination practices, develop concrete implementation ideas and gain confidence in their application.

By the end of the workshop, participants will have a clear understanding of the teaching contexts in which oral examinations can be usefully employed and how they can design these in a methodologically sound, fair and professional manner.

10 am – 4 pm