The global education industry lags behind other industries when it comes to adopting big data technologies, with only 17% of them achieved in 2019; however, 74% of respondents said they are likely to use it in the future. This is where learning analytics comes in, and several universities are already using learning analytics to understand and optimize learning outcomes. For example, modern learning management systems (LMS) have data-driven capabilities that measure key metrics of student performance.
This was a test conducted at the University of Baltimore, Maryland, and they found a positive correlation between students' grades and their LMS use. Students earning C and F consistently demonstrated a 40% reduction in LMS usage at the university compared to students earning a C or higher. Additionally, educational institutions can use the LMS to generate reports and key metrics, such as completion rates and text message service course pass rates, which can provide insight into the effectiveness of their course designs.
Information such as what learners often like to learn and when to learn the material can show educators their students' commitment to the course content and areas for improvement. Additionally, learning analytics can help schools make institutional decisions and strategies. This was the case at Syracuse University, which employed learning analytics in its student counseling program, and Saint Louis University, which used big data to make planned decisions about admissions scope.