Applying and evaluating visualization design guidelines for a MOOC dashboard to facilitate self-regulated learning based on learning analytics

Abstract

With the help of learning analytics, MOOCs have wider potential to succeed in learning through promoting self-regulated learning (SRL). The current study aims to apply and validate visualization design guidelines for a MOOC dashboard to enhance such SRL capabilities based on learning analytics. To achieve the research objective, a MOOC dashboard prototype, LM-Dashboard, was designed and developed, reflecting the visualization design guidelines to promote SRL. Then, both expert and learner participants evaluated LM-Dashboard through iterations to validate the visualization design guidelines and perceived SRL effectiveness. The results of expert and learner evaluations indicated that most of the visualization design guidelines on LM-Dashboard were valid and some perceived SRL aspects such as monitoring a student’s learning progress and assessing their achievements with time management were beneficial. However, some features on LM-Dashboard should be improved to enhance SRL aspects related to achieving their learning goals with persistence. The findings suggest that it is necessary to offer appropriate feedback or tips as well as to visualize learner behaviors and activities in an intuitive and efficient way for the successful cycle of SRL. Consequently, this study contributes to establishing a basis for the visual design of a MOOC dashboard for optimizing each learner’s SRL.