AI in education is pushing universities to redesign assessments around student thinking, understanding and real-time problem-solving rather than relying only on traditional essays. Universities in Singapore are experimenting with live presentations, oral questioning, in-class writing, staged submissions and assignments that require students to evaluate AI-generated material. The shift comes as institutions recognise that conventional take-home essays can be difficult to use as evidence of independent learning when generative AI can produce polished responses. The National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University and other institutions are moving away from reliance on AI-detection systems, with some universities saying such tools are unreliable. Instead, educators are increasingly assessing how students explain concepts, respond to questions and demonstrate their learning process. For Indian schools and universities, the development offers a useful model for designing AI-era assessment. Students should expect greater emphasis on understanding, critical thinking, communication and authentic application of knowledge.
AI in Education: Universities Replace Essays With Thinking-Based Tests
