About Us

CRADLE Logo

Opened in 2015, the Centre for Research in Assessment and Digital Learning (CRADLE) investigates improvements in higher education assessment in the context of a rapidly expanding digital environment.


Led by Alfred Deakin 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.


Our Research

Our underpinning premise is improving learning in higher and professional education.

We have three broad and intersecting research themes.

Empty exam hall showing chairs, tables and exam papers ready.

Assessing for Learning

Learning in a digital world

Learning through, and for, work


    Research Programs

    The digital world and its impact on learning and teachingFeedback and feedback practices
    Learning in, and for, the workplaceEvaluative judgement
    Assessment security and academic integrityInclusion and belonging in a digital world
    Representation in and beyond assessment

      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


      About the 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 and seminar reviews, and our annual symposium news items.

      What’s in our blog?


      Contact Us

      CRADLE Co-Director

      Professor David Boud

      CRADLE Co-Director

      Professor Phill Dawson


      back to top