Learning Analytics is a new field in educational research that focuses on how to improve student learning experiences and student success using data.
UBC defines Learning Analytics as “the collection, analysis, and reporting of data about learners and learning environments with the aim of better understanding and improving teaching, learning, and the student experience.” If you are enrolled in a course that uses the Canvas learning platform, your instructors can use data provided by the platform to improve learning activities and assignments. This data includes information related to overall class progress to provide personalized feedback, engagement in discussion forums to support the fostering of community within the course, and how resources are being accessed to support improvements to the course design.
In Canvas specifically, instructors can view data for the entire course, or for an individual student, which may assist them in assessing students, facilitating activities, and supporting student wellbeing. If you have any questions about how data is being used in your course, feel free to ask your instructor directly, as each instructor may be using it differently.
The UBC Learning Analytics project is is working with students to explore how data could be presented to help you manage your time, prioritize tasks, and leverage resources to support your learning over time.
If you have questions, would like to learn more, or would like to be involved in learning analytics at UBC, visit the UBC Learning Analytics site.