Learning Analytics to Explore the Learner Participation in Discussion of a Massive Open Online Course

• In Event: 73.021 - Measuring, Predicting, and Assessing Student Learning via Technology

Abstract

This case study explores learner participation in the discussion forums of a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), using learning analytics and text mining. In particular, it explores the degree of participants’ engagement in “speaking” and “listening” activities across each week of the MOOC and their contributions to the discussion focused on the course topic. This study is considered an initial investigation into the usefulness of both learning analytics and text mining – both potentially efficient ways of processing and examining large online learning data sets – for assessing learning engagement. Although the study is situated in a MOOC, the findings should also be of interest to the larger online learning community.

Authors

• Jiyae Bong, Florida State University

• Vanessa Paz Dennen, The Florida State University