Monday, 3 March 2025
This half-day workshop explores the potential for combining learning analytics systems, such as those embedded in Digital Learning Platforms (DLP), with improvement science methodologies to address educational challenges. Learning analytics systems provide detailed data on student engagement and performance, while improvement science offers a structured framework for continuous, data-informed improvement. The workshop aims to equip participants with strategies for designing improvement cycles that leverage data, foster collaboration between practitioners and researchers, and produce scalable, equitable interventions. Through hands-on activities and case studies, participants will explore practical applications of these methods in various educational contexts.
Introduction to Key Concepts
⏳ 45 minutes
Overview of learning analytics systems and improvement science.
The six core principles of improvement science:
Problem-specific focus
Addressing variation
Systems analysis
Practical measurement
Disciplined inquiry (PDSA cycles)
Networked communities
Case Studies
⏳ 60 minutes
Real-world examples showing how learning analytics can address performance issues and drive improvement interventions.
Example: Leveraging LMS data to improve feedback timing or address reading comprehension in STEM subjects.
Discussion of successful PDSA cycle applications in school districts.
Interactive Group Work: Designing PDSA Cycles
⏳ 85 minutes
Participants will form small groups to design a PDSA cycle using sample datasets from SIS/LMS platforms.
Each group will identify a specific educational challenge (e.g., student engagement disparities) and develop an intervention to test.
Groups will share their designs for feedback and refinement.
Challenges and Best Practices
⏳ 45 minutes
Discussion on practical challenges of integrating learning analytics with improvement science (e.g., data privacy, teacher training).
Facilitators will offer strategies to overcome these challenges and ensure effective collaboration between researchers and educators.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
⏳ 15 minutes
Summarize workshop insights.
Provide resources for further exploration of these methodologies.
Outline actionable next steps for implementing learning analytics-informed improvement cycles.
Visit the main LAK25 website for more information.