Beyond the Final Paper: Assess Decisions and Reasoning

A final paper can show how a student develops an argument. An interactive case can add evidence of how they respond when information changes. The useful question is which combination best supports your learning objective.

We've written before about interactive simulations. Here is how to use them as part of an assessment plan.

Start with the evidence you need

A polished submission alone may leave questions about a student's understanding. Ask what additional task would help you judge the intended skill.

AI can help students summarize a case or draft an answer. State what use is permitted and assess their ability to explain the evidence and defend the recommendation.

Combine written reasoning with decisions

Written analysis and scenario decisions can examine different aspects of a learning objective. Neither format automatically establishes understanding.

A useful case asks students to weigh competing priorities and explain uncertainty.

For example, ask students to decide whether to enter a new market, introduce a supply constraint, and ask them to revise or defend the recommendation.

AI can assist with these tasks too. Use discussion and appropriate process evidence to examine what the student understands.

How AI Case Simulations Actually Grade

One common objection is that subjective, open-ended decisions can't be graded by an algorithm. The reality is more nuanced.

In LiveCase, authors can configure AI grading for written answers and character conversations. Criteria should describe the reasoning you want to assess.

That grading does not automatically score every choice or flag suspicious behavior. Review the response and feedback before drawing conclusions.

Test the criteria with representative answers and plan how you will review disagreements.

Academic Integrity Through Design

Assessment design can produce more evidence of understanding. It cannot make unauthorized AI use impossible.

Explain permitted AI use before the activity and use institutional procedures if concerns arise.

Branching paths can introduce different developments, but a learner's path need not be unique. Ask for explanations grounded in the information they received.

Assess engagement and learning separately. Completion alone does not establish understanding.

What This Looks Like in Practice

Consider this illustrative activity: students take the role of a CEO handling a communications crisis. They receive incomplete information and must justify a response.

The instructor configures criteria for a written justification or character conversation, reviews the resulting work, and selects examples for discussion.

The debrief compares the evidence and trade-offs behind different recommendations.

A corporate trainer could use a similar design for an ethical dilemma, then arrange later observation to assess workplace application.

Getting Started Without Rebuilding Your Course

Choose one learning objective and adapt an existing assessment using the AI Case Authoring Studio. Allow time to check the generated content, grading criteria, and learner experience.

Three pathways work depending on your timeline:

• Start from scratch for full control, more effort, total flexibility
• Co-create with AI to generate the blueprint and dialogue from your prompt, the recommended starting route
• Studio Services for a white-glove build if your institution needs it built for you

Start with a short case and review the result before expanding.

FAQ

What is simulation-based assessment?

It uses a scenario to elicit decisions and explanations. What is assessed depends on the case design and criteria.

Can AI really grade open-ended student decisions?

LiveCase supports configured AI grading for written answers and character conversations. Test it against representative responses and retain instructor review.

Can simulations prevent AI cheating?

No format guarantees prevention. Clear AI-use rules, explanations, and follow-up discussion can help instructors assess understanding.

Do simulations take more time for instructors to set up?

Setup time depends on the material, case complexity, and review required. Pilot a small activity before replacing a larger assessment.

Can simulations be integrated with existing LMS platforms?

LiveCase supports Canvas LTI, Blackboard LTI, and partner LTI. Confirm the setup and reporting requirements; do not assume automatic gradebook or roster syncing.

How should I evaluate the activity?

Define the learning objective and criteria before delivery. Review learner responses and compare appropriate assessments if you want to evaluate improvement.