A learning analytics pilot in Moodle and its impact on developing organisational capacity in a university

Abstract

Moodle is used as a learning management system around the world. However, integrated learning analytics solutions for Moodle that provide actionable information and allow teachers to efficiently use it to connect with their students are lacking. The enhanced Moodle Engagement Analytics Plugin (MEAP), presented at ASCILITE2015, enabled teachers to identify and contact students at-risk of not completing their units. Here, we discuss a pilot using MEAP in 36 units at Macquarie University, a metropolitan Australian university. We use existing models for developing organisational capacity in learning analytics and to embed learning analytics into the practice of teaching and learning to discuss a range of issues arising from the pilot. We outline the interaction and interdependency of five stages during the pilot: technology infrastructure, analytics tools and applications; policies, processes, practices and workflows; values and skills; culture and behaviour; and leadership. We conclude that one of the most significant stages is to develop a culture and behaviour around learning analytics.