Evaluating the student activity meter: Two case studies

Abstract

In the Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) domain, visualizations are attracting increased interest. In this paper, we present the Student Activity Meter that visualizes learner activities within online learning environments for learners and teachers to help increase awareness and to support self-reflection. We present evaluation results of two case studies with teachers, learning analytics students and experts. Results from teachers show that the visualizations can assist in creating awareness, understanding of student resource use and student time spending behavior. SAM's three visualizations were perceived as equally useful, but for different tasks. The evaluation participants also identified new metrics to extend our current set and prioritized new visualization ideas. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.