Piloting Network Frequently Asked Questions
What is piloting?
For this network, we use piloting in a broad sense which could mean:
- Discussing ideas for assessment methods with colleagues in other institutions
- Asking colleagues in other institutions to review test instructions, items or tasks
- Administering a trial or pre-operational test with students at other institutions
- Analysing the results of a test with colleagues in other institutions
Why should I pilot?
- Build confidence in your tests and your own assessment literacy
- Contribute to your quality assurance processes
- Inspire and gain inspiration from colleagues in other institutions
- Strengthen the validity of your tests
- Develop contacts with assessment-focused colleagues in EAP
The benefits of piloting my assessment are clear, but what are the benefits of ‘hosting’?
Hosting a pilot test (e.g. offering another institution students to pilot their test) can offer many benefits and opportunities for both staff and students, including:
- Students are exposed to different voices and faces, and can be good test-taking practice.
- Depending on when and how the assessment is conducted, it can free up teacher time, and add something different to a scheme of work.
- An insight into others’ tests and their test-writing process.
- Relationship-building and developing contacts with other institutions and organisations.
I’m not attached to an institution but I would like to be involved. Can I?
Yes, certainly. You can describe your context when you input your requirements in the registration form.
We are a very small centre, is that OK?
Yes, you can describe your context when you input your requirements in the registration form.
I want to pilot a test but I don’t have much to offer (e.g. students for a partner to pilot their test with). Can I still join?
Yes, certainly, and participants are often able to offer more than they think (e.g. peer review, critical friend). Of course, the network can only function and flourish if enough participants are willing and able to host pilot tests or peer review, so please do update the form if and when you might be able to offer something.
I don’t want to pilot a test but I would like to join the network for other reasons. Can I?
Yes, certainly. The network goes beyond piloting tests with representative learners. Other possible uses of the network are collaborations involving peer review, critical friends, and collaborative test development.
You can view a recording of the introductory webinar for the network here (from June 2021).