Improving Teaching and Learning of Common Core Courses Through Learning Analytics

Abstract

This project aims to improve the teaching and learning of Common Core (CC) courses through learning analytics (LA) with an emphasis on outcome-based learning (OBL). LA is the measurement, collection, analysis and reports of data in a learning environment with automated means, helping obtain knowledge about student learning in near real time. Various characteristics of CC courses, such as huge class sizes, diverse student backgrounds, interdisciplinary content, non-traditional course activities, present challenges to both instructors and students. In this project, a LA tool is developed on both Moodle and Open edX platforms, to visualize the learning progress towards each learning outcome. It can serve as a basis for learners to carry out self-monitoring of outcome-linked learning progress, and help teachers monitor student progress and offer possible interventions for at-risk students after judicious interpretation of data. The LA tool provides scientifically sound and objective understanding of student learning behaviors based on which suggestions for improving CC courses can be made. Due to similarities between CC courses and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) at the University, results from this project also serve as a basis of MOOC analysis, for the monitoring and continuous improvement of HKU MOOCs.

Deliverables (HKU Portal Login Required)