A New Era of Assessment: Why AI Calls for More Than Just AI-Resistant Assignments

In an age where students can generate essays, solve math problems, and even simulate historical figures with AI tools like ChatGPT, how do we assess learning in a way that still matters?

It’s no longer enough to make assignments “AI-proof.” In fact, that mindset might be holding us back. What we need is a complete rethink of what assessment is, what it can be, and how AI can actually help us do it better.

This is the conversation we started in our January YouTube Premiere. Here are some of the key takeaways, and how you can join us for the next step on April 30, where we’ll focus on designing smarter assignments in the ChatGPT era.

From Traditional to Transformational: What We Got Wrong About Assessment

For decades, we’ve focused on assessing the product — the final essay, the submitted report, the multiple-choice test. But as generative AI becomes more capable of mimicking these outputs, it’s clear that our focus needs to shift from product to process.

Rather than ask “Did the student write this?” we need to ask:

• Did the student demonstrate critical thinking?

• Did they learn how to ask better questions?

• Can they apply what they’ve learned in new, meaningful contexts?

The old models of summative and even formative assessment are no longer enough on their own. That’s why we introduced a third layer: integrative assessment. 

What Is Integrative Assessment?

Integrative assessments are continuous, authentic, and personalised.

They measure understanding as it develops — not just when it’s done.

Think of it as micro-assessment: bite-sized moments of evaluation embedded in the learning experience. Using AI, these assessments can be:

• Ongoing and real-time (rather than periodic)

• Embedded in role plays or simulations 

• Automated with feedback loops for students and educators

They’re not just about what the student knows, but how they apply it — and why it matters.

Yes, AI Can Help — If You Use It Right

We’ve seen educators embrace:

• AI-assisted role plays (e.g. students interviewing a persona like Lee Kuan Yew)

• Prompt engineering as a form of assessment 

• Hyperlocal research projects that require real-world engagement AI can’t replicate

We’re not suggesting banning AI. We’re suggesting designing assessments that assume AI will be used — and still make the student think. That’s how we move forward.

What’s Next: Join Us on April 30

Our next YouTube Premiere continues the conversation:

“Designing Assignments in the ChatGPT Era” 

📅 April 30, 12PM SGT

In this short session, you’ll:

• See how educators are creating AI-conscious assignments that work

• Learn practical ways to encourage higher-order thinking

• Get ideas you can try immediately, even if you’re just getting started

🎥 Sign up to watch the premiere and get the replay link

Final Thought: We’re Not Just Adapting to AI. We’re Redesigning for the Future

Assessment isn’t broken because of AI. It was due for a rethink long before ChatGPT showed up. But now, we have the tools — and the urgency — to rebuild it into something better:

More meaningful. More human. And yes, more AI-savvy.