About English Language Learning
In the English Language Learning (ELL) business unit, we aspire to become the world's leading destination to learn and improve English language skills. Our main focus is on committed learners from around the world, who are motivated by outcomes because they want to reach their full potential through learning English.
About the role
To lead on the publishing of specific English language tests, primarily the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Portfolio within the ELL division. The role manages a number of Database Managers and Administrators who manage the workflow of test development from initial item commissioning to the publication of the test on the Pearson Vue delivery platform. The role is key in managing the Item Bank Software and the Quality Assurance of all tests working closely with VUE publishing and other teams across Pearson. These teams are globally distributed. The role requires exceptional attention to detail as well as an ability to prioritise and deliver to challenging deadlines. The successful applicant with have proven management skills to motivate and lead a team.
Key accountabilities
-
Lead on the Quality Assurance review of all tests in the PTE portfolio and other test delivery systems as required
-
Lead on the provision of Item Banking technology for tests across the portfolio; where required identify synergies where improvements and efficiencies can be made
-
Represent the PTE Portfolio on critical projects and meetings as they pertain to the work of Test Development with respect to Item Banking and Test Publishing
-
Ensure Test Development staff have the training and equipment to deliver the QA necessary for all tests
-
Develop QA procedures for tests which do not fall under the PTE portfolio to ensure similar standards of security are being followed
-
Support and help manage the activity with respect of providers of test items from the International Item writing teams
-
Manage both internal and external resource to ensure all deadlines and quality standards are met; this includes working with R&D teams to ensure test development requirements are met
-
Ensure that all aspects of the test development workflow, item banking and test publishing are appropriately documented; that document control ensures the most recent documentation is used; that documents are reviewed and updated regularly
-
Ensure adherence to the professional standards as expressed in specified standards and codes of practice which are established in the language testing field
-
Be involved in projects related to test development with the goal of improving the quality of tests and test development processes
-
Ensure compliance with relevant ISO and data protection protocols
-
Act as first point of contact for internal and external audits of the Test Development workflow and Test Publishing procedures
Management of the test cycle
-
Develop schedules for all PTE portfolio products to ensure tests are published and test content is updated
-
Work with Psychometric specialists to ensure item selection for test banks is done to schedule and quality requirements and that data is loaded to the appropriate score files and that these are checked and signed off pre and post cycle launch
-
Manage publishing test cycles for specified tests, including the development of two track publishing if required (i.e. where different publishing teams are working concurrently on developing new cycles of content)
-
Ensure the highest standards of QA following standard test development procedures
Customer service
-
Be proactive in determining the appropriate responses to enquiries from stakeholders; ensure systems are in place to support appropriate messages to stakeholders
-
Ensure all enquiries as they relate to specific tests are dealt with within the established service level agreements
Internal relationships
-
Reports to the Director, Test Development
-
Delegates work to Database Managers and Test Administrators
-
Confers with other Staff within ELL to ensure that the test publishing effort is in line with their requirements
-
Work closely with the VUE publishing teams and Scoring partners to ensure tests are published accurately and on time
-
Supervises the work of designated team members
-
Works with staff members within ELL responsible for operations, administration, learning materials and business development to ensure a smooth and efficient workflow within the business
Industry relationships
-
Liaise with testing experts and other identified specialist on specific issues related to test design and delivery
-
Report information about Pearson tests or findings from studies on Pearson tests at conferences or similarly organised events and in publications in professional journals
Typical tasks
-
Manage the key aspects of test publishing for specified tests
-
Lead the Test Development input for any improvements or development of item banking and test publishing software
-
Suggest solutions for any operational issues that may become apparent with the test ensuring that sound principles of test development are followed
-
Delegate work to other members of the team and provide regular reports on progress
-
Define the scope and nature of reports for senior members of staff; delegate to staff the responsibility for producing such reports
-
Work closely with psychometric staff to ensure that all data stored on the item bank and in other systems is accurate and accessible to other relevant staff
-
Help to identify research opportunities to improve the quality of the test instruments and processes
About you
A commitment to quality and an ability to communicate that to key stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have excellent organisational and management skills and be able to work across business units.
Essential Skills
Educated to Post Graduate level with a Technology or Educational Technology focus
Deep understanding of database management and process requirements
Ability to work with large data sets
Quality orientated with excellent attention to detail
Proven administrative skills
Project management skills and