1. Here’s an article by Simon Borg on Video–based observation in impact evaluation https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149718921001026?via%3Dihub Free of access, with a really useful bibliography containing links to a large number of related open-access articles. PDF below.

2. Full disclosure: I admit to being wholly non-objective about the IATEFL, English UK and British Council PRELIM project: it’s the best thing since sliced bread. I thought this webinar for Eaquals by Rose Aylett and Martyn Clarke on their report on PRELIM 1 was tremendous, and a highly recommended watch, especially if you’re thinking of applying for a PRELIM 2 grant https://www.eaquals.org/eaquals-events/event/rose-aylett-martyn-clarke-learning-partnerships-lessons-from-prelim/resources/

Thanks to Lou McLaughlin for making the recording available to non-members!

3. A technical but accessible piece from Emma Walland of Cambridge University Press and Assessment on Understanding grading, standards and grade inflation in England https://www.cambridge.org/news-and-insights/insights/grading-standards-blog2 Grade inflation is (perceived to be) a problem in many countries around the world, I think?

4. This week’s phobia is ergophobia, from which very few people reading these messages of mine suffer!

5. And, finally, this month’s Hay Festival book of the month is Bewilderment by Richard Powers, described as “an arresting tale about the need to keep those we love safe. Theo Byrne is a promising young astrobiologist who has found a way to search for life on other planets dozens of light years away. He is also the widowed father of a most unusual nine-year-old, whose fears he soothes with inner voyages to fantastical worlds”.

There’s a free online reading and Q&A with Powers at 19:00 UK time on Thursday 21^st October. More info and registration here https://www.hayfestival.com/book-of-the-month-october-2021