Learning Analytics can be defined as the measurement and analysis of information collected during the learning process in a digital environment. This educational tool is based on the Big Data, the storage and management of massive data for later study in search of patterns that allow to anticipate future behaviors.

The storage and management of large volumes of data allows us to decompose a study object to find out how each of its parts works. Applied to education, Big Data gives us the possibility of moving towards a model centered on the student as a unique individual endowed with characteristics and needs of his own. Ultimately, the goal of Learning Analytics is to optimize learning processes.

Learning adapted to the rhythm of each student

The integration of a learning management system allows to record all the interactions that the student made with the digital platform, information that makes it possible to keep a check on their learning pace. Thus, a teacher can detect the characteristics that define each student individually and design an adapted learning program that allows him to continue advancing in his academic path.

Optimization of educational contents

Directly related to the previous point, knowing the student and being aware of both their potential and their special needs allows teachers to design and complement content guided by specific objectives.

The goal of Learning Analytics is to optimize learning processes detection of study patterns and resolution of exercises

Learning Analytics allows the teacher to know how long it takes each student to perform an exercise or test, to identify the most failing questions, to find out where they are stuck and to stop progressing … This information allows, for example, to determine if the exercises fit To the content seen in class or if the approach of the same is understandable for the students.

Follow-up of the student’s progress not only during the current academic year, but throughout his or her academic journey

Imagine that a student presents difficulties to a particular task or competence. Using the Learning Analytics, the teacher can analyze the data generated by the student, find the root of the problem and design effective solutions. In addition, you will also be able to access the student’s academic history, where you can check if the student faces learning difficulties that are repeated throughout different academic courses.

The teacher will be able to analyze the data generated by the student, find the root of the problem and design effective solutions. In this same line, learning metrics accelerate communication between teachers in relation to students’ progress, making it easier to exchange information necessary for the analysis and control of their overall academic evolution.

Anticipation and prevention of school failure

The treatment of data allows to detect patterns that warn of the risk of failure of a student. With this information, the teacher can advance the problem by having information collected in real time and accessible immediately. Then you can design a personalized learning plan to prevent demotivation.


Photo by Diane Horvath