An Approach for Combining Qualitative Analysis With Learning Analytics to Study Learning Processes in Project-Based Learning

• In Event: Poster Session 6
  In Poster Session: Learning Sciences SIG Poster Session

Abstract

Learning analytics and educational data mining have become increasingly prominent within the learning sciences community. However, much of this work is focused on computer-mediated learning (cognitive tutors and MOOCs) and, has, steered away from many of the theoretical developments that have arisen through micro-genetic analysis of qualitative data. In this paper, we present an approach for combining the tools of computation with qualitative analysis in order to enable an automated analysis of student processes in hands-on, project-based learning environments. We show through leveraging qualitative analysis, in conjunction with artificial intelligence, we are able to cluster students’ learning processes in a meaningful way. Additionally, we show how these clusters can map onto a multidimensional framework for studying engineering design.

Authors

• Marcelo Worsley, Stanford University

• Paulo Blikstein, Stanford University