Reimagining Performance-Based Assessment with Immersive Simulation: A Conversation with SentiraXR’s Jeremy Carter

In this episode of Tried and Tested, host Isabelle Gonthier, PhD, ICE-CCP, speaks with Jeremy Carter, CEO of SentiraXR, about immersive simulations and the future of assessment. Jeremy shares how immersive environments can move learners beyond learning about a situation and into performing inside a realistic scenario, allowing assessment teams to observe competency, decision making, reasoning, and communication in real time.Jeremy explains how SentiraXR uses immersive simulation and AI-driven patient avatars to support authentic conversations, standardized scenarios, and detailed data capture. They discuss anytime and anywhere access through browser-based delivery, how rich interaction data can feed rubric-based reporting and learner feedback, and why a human in the loop approach is critical when using AI in assessment. The conversation also covers practical adoption guidance, including starting with one high-value scenario, maintaining sound assessment design principles, and treating implementation as a change management project.What you’ll learn:How immersive simulation differs from traditional e-learning for assessing competencyWhat real-time performance data can reveal, including decisions, reasoning, and communicationHow AI avatars support more natural, conversation-based assessment scenariosWhy standardized virtual scenarios create a more consistent experience for learnersHow transcription, data capture, and rubrics enable richer feedback for learners and educatorsWhat to consider when piloting immersive assessment, including starting with one high-value scenarioWhy human-in-the-loop review and AI guardrails matter in assessment use casesWhere immersive assessment is heading next, including adaptive approaches and psychometricsWho should listen:Credentialing and certification teams exploring performance-based and skills-based assessmentAssessment leaders looking for more authentic ways to evaluate communication and real-time decision makingProgram owners working with practical assessment formats who want more standardized scenariosAssessment designers and SMEs involved in scenario design and rubric developmentEducation and testing technology professionals evaluating XR delivery models, browser-based access, and AI avatarsOrganizations focused on fairness, consistency, and learner preparation through repeatable practice and feedbackAbout the Guest:Jeremy Carter is CEO and co-founder of Sentira XR, a University of Manchester spin-out developing immersive simulations and AI-enabled tools for education. With over 25 years’ experience in learning and assessment technology, Jeremy has worked with universities, professional bodies and awarding organisations to modernise how skills are taught and evaluated.He regularly speaks about the future of assessment and the role of emerging technologies in supporting authentic learning and skills development.If you found this conversation valuable, subscribe to Tried and Tested for more expert insights on credentialing, assessment, test security, and exam integrity.In This Episode:00:00 Intro00:45 Meet Jeremy Carter, CEO of SentiraXR03:01 Immersive Simulation vs Traditional E-Learning06:08 How XR Supports Performance-Based Assessment07:47 Anytime, Anywhere Access to Immersive Assessment11:20 How Simulation Data Improves Feedback and Evaluation15:02 Moving from Traditional Exams to Immersive Simulations19:26 Balancing Assessment Rigor with New Technology23:11 Accessibility and Fairness in Immersive Simulations27:39 The Future of Assessment: XR, AI, and Data31:50 Advice for Assessment Leaders Exploring Immersive Tools36:03 Closing Thoughts