Learning analytics

What is Learning analytics?

Learning analytics is “the application of analytic techniques to analyse educational data, including data about learner and teacher activities, to identify patterns of behaviour and provide (frequent) actionable information to improve learning and learning-related activities.” (Van Harmelen, M. & Workman, D. (2012). CETIS Analytics Series: Analytics for Learning and Teaching).

Learning analytics uses specialised software that pulls together existing student data from multiple university systems into one central dashboard. By having student data on one central dashboard, staff can obtain a clearer picture of student engagement with educational activities across modules and programmes without having to look at multiple systems.

This enables staff to identify students who are at risk of not progressing and provide those students with appropriate, tailored and timely support to help them succeed. This support, also known as ‘interventions’, can be done on an individual or group basis.

Watch ‘What is Learning Analytics’, an introductory video.

How does City use learning analytics?

City is currently testing and embedding its learning analytics service and system through the Learning Analytics Project (LeAP), project-managed by members of the Learning Enhancement and Development (LEaD) team. The project’s current phase is active from 2020-2023.

LeAP’s key focus is how learning analytics and student interventions can be used to understand and support student engagement with their studies, which in turn can lead to better retention and progression of students. The LeAP Code of Practice sets out the overall approach to learning analytics at City, highlighting the key principles which govern its use and addressing related issues of transparency, consent, privacy, validity and access as they relate to learning analytics.

Related policies include:

• Privacy policy for students (City, University of London)
• Terms and conditions of study (City, University of London), esp. clauses 15.3 (a), (d) and (f)
• Taught Student Attendance and Engagement Policy (City, University of London)

More information about how City uses learning analytics, LeAP’s project phases, related policies, and other Frequently Asked Questions can be found on the LeAP website.

Contact Us

1. To enquire about your data and its use in the learning analytics system:

Please contact City’s Information Assurance team or the course office within your School (login required)

2. To contact the LeAP project team:

Please contact Ethan Henry (educational technologist, LEaD) or Evana Downes (assistant educational technologist, LEaD).