Preparing learners, assessors and processes: a framework for implementing interactive oral assessments at any scale

This research introduces the 3Ps Framework to implement Interactive Oral Assessments (IOAs) at scale. Developed from 15 years of data across 9,000+ students, the framework addresses contemporary generative AI challenges by evaluating higher-order thinking through dynamic conversation. It overcomes traditional barriers, such as student anxiety and operational costs, by categorizing strategies into three operational pillars: Preparing Learners (scaffolding skills, forging familiarity, alleviating anxiety), Preparing Assessors (conducting conversations, assessor agency, moderating marking), and Preparing Processes (scheduling strategies, proctoring procedures, and recording results). Ultimately, it offers a scalable blueprint for fair, authentic assessment.