The Test Community.Network

The Test Community.Network

By Tim BurnettEducation
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The Test Community.Network episodes

  • 7th November Edtech Double Agent, Pete Atherton in Conversation + The Test Community Network Weekly Update

    Register for the AI Superpowers Webinar: https://www.linkedin.com/events/aisuperpowersforukawardingorgan7256426953564418049/comments/


    In this week's episode, Tim Burnett chats with Dr. Pete Atherton, an Lecturer, author, podcaster, consultant, keynote speaker and EdTech researcher and author who positions himself as an "EdTech double agent." They discuss:


    • The evolution of EdTech and AI in education, particularly focusing on the impact of ChatGPT and new tools like Notebook LLM
    • The challenges of integrating AI and technology into traditional educational systems
    • Future developments in educational technology, including personalised learning journeys and creative applications of AI

    • Pete shares his journey from being an English teacher to becoming an EdTech researcher, highlighting his critical approach to technology implementation in education. He discusses his experience observing how tools like Kahoot were being used in classrooms - creating excitement but not necessarily meaningful learning. This led to his exploration of how to better integrate technology with teaching objectives.


      The conversation delves into current developments in AI education tools, with both hosts expressing excitement about NotebookLM's capabilities, particularly its accuracy and podcast generation features. They explore the broader implications of AI in education, discussing the challenges of integration between different tools and platforms, and the need for more meaningful conversations about AI at governmental and institutional levels.


      Pete also reveals his upcoming projects, including a new book focused on practical ways to use AI in the classroom, and his involvement with Eden-51, a startup breaking down English education into 51 competencies. He shares his work on developing an AI-powered creative writing coach and his research into the dialogue between humans and AI in the creative process.


      The discussion concludes with reflections on the potential for AI to foster creativity and break down traditional barriers in education, while acknowledging the rapid pace of change in the field.


      Connect with Pete Atherton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petefred/

      Connect with Tim Burnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tburnett/


      If you would like to join Tim on a future episode or sponsor the Test Community Network then get in touch with Tim to schedule a call: https://calendly.com/educationtech/15min-teams-chat

      Events: https://www.testcommunity.network/upcoming-events

      Podcasts: https://www.testcommunity.network/podcasts

      Marketplace: https://www.testcommunity.network/marketplace

      Subscribe to the Test Community Network here: https://www.testcommunity.network

      31 min
    • Looking Back on E-ATP Berlin 2024 with Chelsea Dowd + Test Community Weekly Update

      In this week's episode, Tim Burnett chats with Chelsea from Learnosity, chair of the 2024 E-ATP Conference in Berlin. They discuss her experiences at the recent E-ATP conference in Berlin and insights into the future of assessment technology.


      Top 3 discussion points:


      • Donald's keynote on AI in assessment and learning
      • The evolution of certification testing beyond knowledge-based assessment
      • Learnosity's AI initiatives and innovations in assessment technology

      • The discussion kicked off with Chelsea sharing her experiences from the E-ATP conference in Berlin. She provided detailed insights into Donald's keynote presentation, which sparked discussions about AI's role in cheating and assessment. The keynote balanced AI's positive potential while acknowledging its challenges, backed by statistical data.

        Chelsea emphasized several key conference takeaways, including:


        • The need for a review of assessment practice in light of the increasing use and abilities of AI.
        • Examples of AI innovation such as those being undertaken by Microsoft.
        • The importance of belonging and EDIB (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging) in assessment

        • As conference chair, Chelsea brought energy and engagement to the event, including her captenciy of Team Europe in the Family Fortunes-style session that added a fun element to testing industry knowledge. She also shared exciting developments at Learnosity, where they've established an AI lab with 30 specialists working on innovations like:

          • AI-powered item bank health checker
          • AI content creation for questions
          • AI-assisted marking for essay questions

          • The conversation concluded with Chelsea strongly endorsing volunteer roles within ATP, highlighting the professional and personal development opportunities it provides.

            Connect with Chelsea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-dowd-8b382610b/

            Connect with Tim Burnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tburnett/


            AI Skills Webinar: AI Superpowers for UK Awarding Organisations 21st November 2024 https://www.linkedin.com/events/aisuperpowersforukawardingorgan7256426953564418049/comments/


            AI Workshop: https://www.testcommunity.network/aiworkshop


            If you would like to join Tim on a future episode or sponsor the Test Community Network then get in touch with Tim to schedule a call: https://calendly.com/educationtech/15min-teams-chat

            Events: https://www.testcommunity.network/upcoming-events

            Podcasts: https://www.testcommunity.network/podcasts

            Marketplace: https://www.testcommunity.network/marketplace

            Subscribe to the Test Community Network here: https://www.testcommunity.network

            26 min
          • 17th Oct: Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, & Belonging in Assessment + Test Community Update

            In this week's episode, Tim Burnett chats with Claire McCauley (Director of Exam Services) and Dr Gwen Caudwell (Director of Assessment Services) from Cambridge University Press and Assessment about the importance of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, & Belonging in Assessment. Claire is the Director of Exam Services, focusing on test day delivery, operational delivery, and exam security for English language qualifications globally. Gwen is the Director of Assessment Services, responsible for content creation and marking across English language qualifications.


            They discuss:


            The application of equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDIB) principles in global assessment practices

            Challenges in implementing EDIB standards across different countries and cultures

            The importance of belonging in assessment and its practical implementation


            Claire and Gwen share insights on how Cambridge University Press and Assessment is promoting best practice in EDIB. They explain how these principles are applied in test delivery, content creation, and marking processes. The discussion highlights the complexities of maintaining fairness and standardisation across 130 countries whilst respecting local laws and cultural differences.

            Key points include the provision of special arrangements for candidates with disabilities, the development of standardised experiences globally, and the incorporation of EDIB principles in assessment content and delivery methods. The conversation also touches on the newer concept of "belonging" in assessments, illustrated by examples such as customisable avatars in digital tests for young learners.


            Connect with Claire and Gwen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-mccauley-cambridge/

            Connect with Tim Burnett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwendydd-h-9aba7775/

            If you would like to join Tim on a future episode or sponsor the Test Community Network then get in touch with Tim to schedule a call: https://calendly.com/educationtech/15min-teams-chat

            Events: https://www.testcommunity.network/upcoming-events

            Podcasts: https://www.testcommunity.network/podcasts

            Marketplace: https://www.testcommunity.network/marketplace

            Subscribe to the Test Community Network here: https://www.testcommunity.network

            16 min
          • 10th October AI Tech Demo Plus the Test Community Weekly Update

            In this episode, Tim Burnett explores recent technological advancements and their impact on assessment and education. Highlights include:

            Upcoming events:

            - EATP in Berlin (23-25 October)

            - Beyond Multiple Choice Conference (online, week after EATP)

            - FAB Conference in Leicester (November)

            - Innovations Conference fast pitch deadline (15 November)

            AI and technology demonstrations:

            - Claude's app creation feature for educational simulations

            - Spelling quiz app for children

            - Interactive explanations of AI models

            - Data visualisation using AI

            - Replit for no-code development of web applications

            - Voice chat tools using OpenAI API

            Useful tools for educators and researchers:

            - Notebook LM by Google for research and study guide creation

            - AI-generated audio overviews

            - Video creation tools like Runway and Midjourney

            Ethical concerns:

            - Discussion on facial recognition technology combined with AR glasses

            Join the Test Community Network https://www.testcommunity.network/

            Follow Tim on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tburnett/

            19 min
          • Assessment Ecosystems with Nick Freeman + The Test Community Weekly Update

            In this week's episode, Tim Burnett chats with Nick Freeman, an experienced professional in assessment systems, technology integration, and transformation. They discuss:


            - What does an assessment ecosystem look like for an organisation?

            - What are the main business and technical challenges encountered in assessment ecosystems?

            - What advice would Nick give to organisations considering new assessment technology, especially those with legacy systems?


            Nick shares insights into the complexities of assessment ecosystems, drawing from his extensive experience in supporting and delivering projects across various aspects of assessment and educational technology. He discusses the balance between in-house systems and third-party platforms, emphasising the importance of effective data flow and process delivery. Nick also delves into the technical challenges of system integration, particularly focusing on the critical role of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). The conversation explores the business challenges of managing user expectations when implementing new systems and the importance of involving technical teams early in the decision-making process. Nick offers valuable advice for organisations looking to adopt new assessment technology, particularly those grappling with legacy systems.


            Connect with Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-freeman-digital-transformation/


            Events: https://www.testcommunity.network/upcoming-events


            Podcasts: https://www.testcommunity.network/podcasts


            Marketplace: https://www.testcommunity.network/marketplace


            Subscribe to the Test Community Network here: https://www.testcommunity.network/

            30 min
          • 26th Sept - Competency Modelling with Manny Straehle +Test Community Update

            In this week's episode, Tim Burnett chats with Manny Straehle, a psychometrician and expert in competency modelling. They discuss:


            What is Manny's professional background and expertise in psychometrics and assessment?

            What is Manny currently working on in terms of competency modelling and his upcoming book?

            How would Manny explain the concept of competency models to a 6-year-old child?


            Manny shares insights into his work as a psychometrician and his passion for competency modelling. He discusses the development of his upcoming book on competency models, explaining how these models can be used across various industries to improve assessment, learning, and organisational performance. Manny also touches on the importance of considering outcomes in competency modelling and how this approach can benefit both individuals and organisations. The conversation explores the concept of skill portability and the potential impact of competency models on the future of learning and assessment.



            Connect with Manny through his company website, Assessment Education Research Experts, or on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mstraehle/


            Events: https://www.testcommunity.network/upcoming-events

            Podcasts: https://www.testcommunity.network/podcasts

            Marketplace: https://www.testcommunity.network/marketplace


            Subscribe to the Test Community Network here: https://www.testcommunity.network/


            https://www.linkedin.com/events/6thsept-competencymodellingwith7244779712634388481/comments/

            26 min
          • 19th Sept, Justin Cutroni: Evolution of Tech Certs + Test Community Network

            In this week's episode, Tim Burnett chats with Justin Cutroni, formally Director, Content & Education at Google


            1. How valuable was the certification process in Google's product strategy and customer engagement?

            2. How are AI and rapid technological changes impacting the education and certification landscape?

            3. What role does community play in learning and certification?


            Tim also shares clips from last week's leadership webinar: Exploring the Benefits of a Digital Assessment Transformation for International Testing Programmes.


            Watch the recording on-demand here: https://www.testcommunity.network/webinar-unlocking-international-potentialConnect with Justin here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincutroni/

            Subscribe to the Test Community Network here: https://www.testcommunity.network/

            29 min
          • 12th September Test Community Network Webinar Personhood Credentials with Ph.D. student Nouran Soliman from MIT.

            In this week's episode I interview MIT Ph.D student Nouran Soliman about her work on the subject of Digital Credentials.


            1. What are personhood credentials (PHCs) and what is the background/motivation for this work?

            2. How can personhood credentials help prevent AI fraud in assessment?

            3. What are the next steps or future directions for personhood credentials?


            I also share details of upcoming webinars and clips from the latest Leadership Webinars: Exploring the Benefits of a Digital Assessment Transformation for International Testing Programmes.

            Watch the recording on-demand here: https://www.testcommunity.network/webinar-unlocking-international-potential


            Connect with Nouran here:

            https://www.linkedin.com/in/nouran-m-soliman/


            Subscribe to the Test Community Network here: ⁠https://www.testcommunity.network/⁠


            24 min
          • Test Community Network Webinar Leadership Webinars: Exploring the Benefits of a Digital Assessment Transformation for International Testing Programmes

            In the latest edition of the Test Community Networks Leadership Webinars, we’ll be exploring international growth opportunities and hearing from CQI about their digital assessment transformation.
            Learn directly from awarding, skills and assessment experts who have successfully exported their qualifications or provided pivotal advice across the education industry. Gain invaluable professional development insights that will help you exceed your international growth plans.
            Key Highlights:
            • Explore the opportunities and challenges of delivering digital assessments in emerging markets.
            • Uncover strategies for introducing localised versions of your assessments in new and existing markets.
            • Master technological challenges with innovative solutions for diverse infrastructure settings.
            • Discover skills gaps, growth opportunities and how to present your awarding business in international markets.
            Essential for professionals seeking to:
            • Expand certification programmes into emerging markets
            • Create inclusive, culturally-sensitive assessment processes
            • Harness technology to scale and overcome geographical and cultural barriers
            Ideal for: Education innovators and awarding industry leaders exploring emerging markets, Policymakers, L&D specialists, and global professional development trend-watchers.
            Seize this opportunity to unlock global growth potential in professional qualifications and skills certification!

            53 min
          • 29th August, Test Community Update & Digital Surveillance in HE Assessment with Sarah Grayston

            In this week's episode, I discuss research into the ethics of digital surveillance and face recognition in HE assessment with research Sarah Grayston.

            In this episode we discuss:

            What are some of the ethical implications and concerns around the use of remote proctoring and biometric data collection in digital assessments?

            • How is technology, particularly AI and digital surveillance, changing assessment practices in higher education?
            • How can the test community network and the general assessment community help Sarah in her research?
            • I also share details on a new webinar coming to the Test Community Network sponsored by Excelsoft

            • Leadership Webinars: Exploring the Benefits of a Digital Assessment Transformation for International Testing Programmes

              Register here: https://www.testcommunity.network/webinar

              Listen to the It Depends Podcast here: https://www.testcommunity.network/podcast-it-depends

              Register for Office Hours here: https://www.dainisco.com/

              Sarah Grayston

              https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-grayston/


              Coded Bias

              Stars: Joy BuolamwiniMeredith BroussardCathy O'Neil

              https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11394170/


              Atlas of AI: Power, Politics, and the Planetary Costs of Artificial Intelligence

              https://www.testcommunity.network/marketpace-details?recordId=recnKKDK8ykckVk8t


              Subscribe to the Test Community Network here: ⁠https://www.testcommunity.network/⁠

              37 min

            About The Test Community.Network

            From the publisher's feed

            Welcome to the Test Community Network, your go-to weekly update on everything about assessment and testing. Tim Burnett and special guests will help you find the latest chances to explore and connect…