Learning Analytics in a Time of Pandemics: Mapping the Field

Abstract

The coronavirus pandemic has impacted global society in many ways, not least education, with schools and universities moving many teaching and learning practices online. This paper examines the response of educational institutions in employing learning analytics, an approach which includes the collection and analysis of student data to understand and optimise teaching and learning. A systematic review of publications is undertaken and key themes identified in an attempt to answer the question: How did learning analytics allow educators to respond to learners’ risks and challenges during the pandemic? This study illustrates issues around the rapid adoption of technological solutions outside of the institution; inequality of internet access; considerations of data privacy and longer term consequences; and the need for an agile, but considered policy response.