The principle of constructive alignment requires that learning objectives, exam objectives and learning methods should be aligned with each other. This talk focuses on the alignment of learning objectives and exams for modern educational settings in software-related courses. As the use of LLM-based tools such as github-copilot or chatGPT has become an integral part of software technology, knowledge about LLM-based tools and their responsible use will also be addressed. For our courses on software-related topics we as instructors need to formulate learning objectives at different levels of granularity: from module descriptions down to fine-grained objectives for a single lecture or learning nugget. The definition of competence-oriented learning objectives at all levels of granularity is discussed, based on Anderson and Krathwohl’s revision of Bloom’s six-level taxonomy. For the assessment process, it is necessary to find appropriate forms of examinations that are constructively aligned with the learning objectives. Assessing programming skills requires forms other than just pen-and-paper exams. Suggestions for hands-on lab exams are discussed as well as tasks that can be used.

Axel Böttcher studied mathematics and has a PhD in communications technology. He has been a professor of computer science at the University of Applied Sciences in Munich for 25 years. He teaches software-related topics. His research interests are in the didactics of computer science, especially software development and software engineering. A current focus is the systematic development of technical and interdisciplinary competences. In 2019 he received the Ars Legendi Faculty Award in Engineering and Computer Science, which is awarded by the Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft e.V. in cooperation with the Conference of Faculties (KFBT).