PODCAST: Transforming the world’s biggest computer-based test – with Lisa Daniels.

In this episode, Lisa Daniels from TSO (The Stationery Office) shares insights into how they tackled declining pass rates in the UK's driving theory test - the world's largest computer-based testing program. As the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency’s official publishing partner, Lisa reveals how TSO has revolutionised the learning experience for aspiring drivers through an innovative elearning platform developed with Sponge.

The conversation explores how understanding diverse learner needs - from anxious first-time drivers to military personnel and refugees - has shaped their approach to creating more effective learning solutions. Lisa discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on driver education and how it sparked new considerations around anxiety management and learning support. She shares how their holistic approach, combining traditional materials with digital innovation, has led to impressive results - with 90% of their platform users passing their tests first time.

From enabling instructor-student collaboration through shared learning records to creating adaptive experiences for different user groups, this episode offers valuable insights into how empathy-driven learning design can transform high-stakes testing experiences. For L&D professionals interested in creating inclusive, effective digital learning solutions that drive real-world outcomes, this discussion provides practical examples of how understanding learner contexts and needs can lead to remarkable results.