Aims and Vision
The Centre for Research in Assessment and Digital Learning (CRADLE) was established in 2014 by the Foundation Director, Deakin Distinguished Professor David Boud. The vision for CRADLE was for a small team of focused researchers to establish Deakin University as a global leader in higher education research, connected to Deakin’s own teaching and learning agenda.
This vision has remained unchanged. CRADLE undertakes and disseminates groundbreaking research on assessment and digital learning. This research has – and continues to – influence teaching and learning within Deakin University and across the higher education sector.
Our focused research agenda aims to:
| Develop world-leading conceptualisations relevant to assessment and digital learning |
| Explore the influence of these conceptualisations empirically across multiple contexts |
| Critically and collaboratively investigate educational concerns and innovations relevant to Deakin’s strategic agenda |
| Set the agenda for national and international conversations about assessment and digital learning in higher education |
At the same time, CRADLE seeks to:
Inform Deakin teaching and learning strategy and practice through staff engagement
Build higher education research across Deakin faculties through a culture of collaboration
Build a community of excellent doctoral students, CRADLE Fellows and alumni
CRADLE Team
David Boud
Dawson
Bearman
Tai
Walker
Crawford
Walton
Hughes
Corbin
Mahoney
Dullaghan
Led by Deakin Distinguished Professor David Boud – currently the world’s leading higher education researcher – and Professor Phillip Dawson, CRADLE’s main role is to research assessment practices in the changing settings of education, which are increasingly embracing digital learning.
We are complemented by a competitive fellowship program, honorary appointments, and doctoral students.
Our Research
Our underpinning premise is improving learning in higher and professional education.
We have three broad and intersecting research themes.
Assessing for Learning
Learning in a digital world
Learning through, and for, work
Research Programs
| Academic security and academic integrity. | Assessment design (including self/peer, authentic and programmatic). |
| Feedback and feedback literacy. | Developing evaluative judgement. |
| Assessment in a digital world. | Digital identities. |
| Inclusion and belonging in a digital world. | Learning in, and for, work. |
| Representation in and beyond assessment. | Quality and standards. |
Throughout these programs we use cross-cutting approaches, including innovative methodological and theoretical approaches and knowledge transition. We collaborate with Deakin faculties and divisions and also work with a range of industry partners and international collaborators.
Learn more
Our Blog
The CRADLE team have created this blog to provide up-to-date news about the latest assessment and digital learning research, our upcoming seminars, our annual symposium, and how to research with us.
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Contact Us
CRADLE Co-Director
Professor David Boud
CRADLE Co-Director
Professor Phill Dawson
