Originator/Sponsor: Scarlatti/Primary ITO/Fruition Horticulture
Portfolio Managers: Jackie Lynch
Status: In Delivery
Planned delivery date: August 2025
Lead Agency/Service Provider: Scarlatti
Objectives:
This project aims to explore how we can leverage technology for assessment across the food and fibre sector.
Introduction/Background:
Recent advancements in technology present new opportunities for enhancing assessment practices. Many organisations in New Zealand are actively exploring this area, and changes are occurring rapidly. This project aims to examine how technology can be effectively utilised to create assessments that are both accessible and meaningful for learners and providers, while also meeting moderation requirements.
AI in Education
Throughout 2025, Scarlatti piloted an Artificial Intelligence (AI) agent for oral assessment in vocational education and training. The pilots showed that oral AI agents have real potential, not only as a cost-effective alternative to one-on-one tutor-led verbal assessments, but also as a more engaging option than traditional written assessments. Alongside the pilots, the project generated valuable insights and practical resources on how AI could be used for assessment and delivery, including:
Webinar recording – featuring a live demo of the AI agent in action, learner and staff feedback, and a discussion on the future of AI in assessment.
AI Agent Playbook – provides a step-by-step guide to help you decide if AI agents are right for you, your learners and organisation; and how to design, build and pilot them.
Article series – published throughout the project and available in the News & Views section of our website, alternatively you can view each article below:
Article 1 – The global landscape: How AI is transforming education
Article 2 – Shaping the future: AI Education Projects in Oceania
Article 3 – Assessment possibilities: Different types of AI for assessment
Article 4 – Weighing it up: Potential benefits and risks of AI assessment
Article 5 – Government guidance: For educators using AI agents
Article 6 – Māori perspectives on AI: Researchers and Innovators
Article 7 – Cogniti AI: Choosing a platform or custom agent
Article 8 – From Vets to VET: Lessons from WorkMate’s AI model for Veterinarians
Article 9 – Unpacking AI assessments: Managing common misconceptions
Article 10 – Piloting AI in oral assessment: 5 practical lessons for education providers
Article 11 – AI for assessment pilots: Five key findings
Article 12 – AI in assessment and delivery: Seven types of futuristic agents
The above information was current as at 22 August 2025