Education 2.0: Learning Analytics, Educational Data Mining and Co.

Abstract

Internet devices and digital resources such as MOOCs or social networking services (SNS) have become an essential element of learning environments that provide a wide variety of data. Using educational data mining (EDM) and learning analytics (LA), we can gain detailed insights into students' learning behavior. Predictive analytics enable adaptive learning, databased benchmarking and other novelties. However, in Europe big data and education are not big topics yet; whereas, in the US the discussion about both the potentials and risks of linking and analyzing educational data is gaining momentum. Problems arise from the use of educational apps, classroom management systems and online services that are largely unregulated so far. That is particularly alarming with regard to data protection, IT security, and privacy. Last but not least, the analysis of personal educational data raises ethical and economical questions.