Abstract

Competency-based assessment in engineering education is becoming increasingly critical as the profession faces rapid technological advances and the growing need for cross-cutting competencies. This paper introduces SmartRubrics, an AI-based tool designed to support the automated generation of competency-based assessment rubrics. The development of this tool is based on a systematic literature mapping study conducted between 2019 and 2024, which identified key gaps, such as the limited integration of digital tools and the under-representation of transversal skills in current assessment practices. By addressing these gaps, SmartRubrics aims to support the standardisation, accessibility, and potential enhancement of competency-based assessment practices, aligned with UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4). Preliminary testing of the prototype with computer science educators has provided valuable information on the effectiveness of the tool and areas for improvement. Future work includes further experimental validation in real educational settings to assess the impact of the tool on teaching and learning practices. © 2025 by the authors.