Learning Freakonomics - Will analytics re-write learning?

Best practice networking lunch

This presentation was originally delivered at Learning Technologies 2013 on Wednesday 30th January.

About this session

Big Data is everywhere. It's not just about the volume of data but according to a recent report from IBM Big Data is defined by velocity, variety, veracity and indeed, the smart ways in which data now can be collected. What happens when we apply these principles to learning?

The new but rapidly growing field of Learning Analytics promises to bring evidence-based improvements to the design, delivery and effectiveness of online learning. By understanding what works and what doesn't, we can use data to drive better learning experiences and improved performance in the workplace.

Learning Analytics are most powerful when we connect them to business KPIs and allow users and managers to benefit from the analysis in real-time.

Learning Analytics offers insight by showing not only uptake and usage but patterns of progress through the learning, achievement in respect to scores on assessments and good practice that happens on the job as a result. Combine analytics with the Tin Can Experience API and we can use the data as part of the live learning process creating more effective work-relevant and real-time support.

In this lunch we invited people to discuss:

• What do we know already? And, what can we find out?
• How can we apply this intelligence?
• How does Learning Analytics work in a multi-device world?
• How can Experience API capture useful data from offline and informal content?
• How are platforms using data to provide real-time results to target audiences?