Data-informed advisories to support the adult learner in higher education

Abstract

Providing learners with continuous advisement and feedback is a key part of encouraging positive learning behaviours. This paper presents the development of data-informed learning advisories for the adult learner in higher education. As part of the university’s learning support, this set of data-driven advisories were designed and targeted to nudge the adult learners to improve course-taking and online learning behaviour. As many have to balance work, study and family commitments; the advisories are designed to encourage and share positive academic practices that are drawn from the data. The advisories also nudge struggling learners into awareness that their learning behaviour differs from that of more successful peers. Reminder nudges assist adult learners in their decision-making. The advisories take into account both the phrasing and mode of communications in order to clarify information, assist planning and increase engagement.