Navigating the Future of Assessment: Birmingham City University’s Journey into Hybrid Digital Assessment

In our latest episode of Digiexam Dialogues: Voices of Innovation, we explore the transformative journey of hybrid digital assessment with Tom Ashmore, Digital Assessment Designer, and Elliot Spence, Senior Digital Assessment Coordinator at Birmingham City University (BCU). With their combined expertise in educational design and student engagement, Tom and Elliot share how BCU has redefined the assessment experience by blending flexibility and rigor. This conversation highlights how thoughtful, student-centered approaches to digital exams can empower learners, bridge digital divides, and set new standards for academic accessibility and integrity.

The shift toward digital transformation in education is often seen as a response to emerging challenges, but at Birmingham City University (BCU), it became an opportunity to innovate. In a recent discussion with Tom Ashmore, Digital Assessment Designer, and Elliot Spence, Senior Digital Assessment Coordinator, insights emerged on the university’s pioneering hybrid digital assessment model—a system aimed at reshaping how assessments are conducted while catering to diverse student needs.

Building for the Future, Before It Arrives

BCU’s journey toward hybrid assessment began even before the COVID-19 pandemic. What started as a speculative initiative—"One day, we’re going to need remote digital assessment," mused a former education leader—quickly became essential when the pandemic necessitated remote solutions. The university's readiness proved vital, enabling a seamless transition to remote assessments while ensuring academic integrity and inclusivity.

However, it was post-pandemic reflections that shaped the hybrid model. Ashmore recalled surveys indicating a split preference among students: while many embraced remote assessments, others preferred traditional in-person settings. The solution? A hybrid model offering students the choice between remote and on-campus exams, designed to occur simultaneously to ensure equity and maintain integrity.

Designing Inclusivity and Accessibility

A cornerstone of BCU’s success is its commitment to inclusivity. Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and experiences of its students—many of whom are commuter students—the university developed extensive resources to bridge technological gaps. Workshops, video guides, and self-help tools were introduced, demystifying digital platforms and addressing basic technical skills, such as using laptops or navigating digital examination software.

Spence highlighted the importance of tailored student support, including confidence-building quizzes that adapt to individual needs. "We wanted to ensure that no student felt left behind," he shared, emphasizing how accessible design contributes to a more inclusive academic environment.

Balancing Technology with Human Connection

Despite the digital focus, BCU has maintained a strong emphasis on the human element. Ashmore described the team’s efforts to engage with students personally, ensuring technology did not feel isolating. “We wanted to keep a human face in a digital process,” he noted, stressing the importance of empathy and connection in fostering student confidence.

Moreover, the hybrid model acknowledges the complexity of student experiences. Some students opt for remote assessments due to anxiety, while others find solace in the structure of on-campus exams. This flexibility respects individual preferences and circumstances, enabling students to perform their best.

Lessons Learned and the Road Ahead

The implementation was not without its challenges. The rapid adoption of the hybrid model led to capacity issues, with a small team managing thousands of students. Yet, through iteration, collaboration, and institutional support, the system evolved into a scalable and efficient framework.

For academics considering similar transformations, BCU’s experience offers several takeaways:

1. Iterative Development: Start small, test frequently, and refine based on feedback.
2. Student-Centered Design: Prioritize accessibility and inclusivity, recognizing the varying digital literacies among students.
3. Collaboration Across Departments: Success hinges on teamwork, drawing on expertise from educators, technologists, and administrators.

Beyond Assessment: Preparing Students for the Digital Age

BCU’s hybrid approach extends beyond exams—it’s a commitment to equipping students with skills for the digital workplace. From teaching basic computer literacy to integrating assistive technologies, the university is bridging the gap between academic preparation and real-world expectations.

As Ashmore aptly concluded, “We’re not just transforming assessments; we’re transforming student experiences and their readiness for the future.”

BCU’s hybrid model exemplifies how thoughtful innovation can address immediate challenges while laying a foundation for sustainable, student-focused solutions. For universities navigating the digital transformation landscape, it serves as both inspiration and a blueprint for success.

Listen to the full conversation to explore more on fostering a purpose-driven, balanced approach to educational technology.