Friday 08-03-2024 - 12:52

 

Lancaster University is launching a new tool to support your learning by bringing together analytics from systems as Moodle and Attendance Check-In. This quick guide explains why it was developed, how it works, and what happens to the information it collects.  

 

 

The new student engagement and attendance tool (SEA) will bring together a range of learner analytics from different University systems.

When combined with data such as your grades, they provide useful information to you, your lecturers, tutors and professional services staff to support your learning.

The University already collects this data in conjunction with the Student Attendance and Engagement Policy, but using it to support your learning is a new development for 2023-24. More information on how we use your data can be found here.

 

What will it track?

Learner analytics are the digital footprints you leave when using University systems. The SEA tool will track:

·       Moodle use

·       Attendance data from iLancaster

·       Assessment submission

·       Use of library resources (both physical book withdrawals and e-resources)

Ensuring you understand what data is tracked and how it’s used is critical. As Rebecca Heron, Head of Student and Programme Administration, explained: “A key principle for us in the launch of this tool is to be completely transparent about how as a university we will be using learner analytics to support you, our students. We want our students to understand what data is being collected, what we will be doing with the information, and why.”

 

Who will access it?

This academic year, learner analytics will be available to tutors and staff within departments. You can also request to meet with your department to view and discuss your learner analytics data.

In the future, the University plans to launch a student view of the data so you can more easily access an accurate indication of how your learning is progressing.

Initially, though, staff will have direct access so they can ensure that the system is working correctly, and provide students with context about what the data means in relation to learning.

 

How will it be used?

The tool will produce a measure for engagement for each individual student that can be compared with cohort or group averages.

“It is our intention to use learner analytics to help students reach their potential,” said Rebecca Heron, Head of Student and Programme Administration. “The new tool means areas of concern can be identified quickly so a meeting can be arranged and support can be provided.”

Where the data suggests a continuing concern, it may be used in referring a student to Standing Academic Committee, but this will only take place where departmental measures relating to attendance have been unsuccessful.

 

Where can I get more information or ask questions?

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with the team by emailing sea-feedback@lancaster.ac.uk