Learning Analytics: Moving from Concept to Practice

Analytics is an umbrella term for the use of data, statistical analysis, and explanatory and predictive models to gain insights and act on complex issues. As a genre of analytics, learning analytics (LA) uses these methods to achieve greater success specifically in student learning. LA can be used in a variety of ways, some of which include alerting faculty, students, and advisors when intervention is needed; providing input for continuous improvement in course design and delivery; and enabling personalization of the learning environment. In 2011, ELI issued a brief that described LA as the coming third wave, a new technology with great potential to increase student academic success. This second ELI brief on LA describes the evolution of the topic over the past year. It draws on two major recent conferences devoted to the theme of learning analytics: the ELI 2012 Spring Focus Session (SFS), which was held on April 11 and 12, 2012, and the second Learning Analytics and Knowledge conference (LAK12), convened April 29–May 3, 2012. The structure of this brief follows the major themes that emerged at these events:

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