Open Learning Analytics: Erik Duval at TEDxUHowes

Erik chairs the research unit on human-computer interaction, at the computer science department of the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven.

His research focuses on massive hyper-personalization ("The Snowflake Effect"), learning analytics, openness and abundance - topics on which he regularly keynotes. In practical terms, his team researches information visualization, mobile information devices, multi-touch displays and personal informatics. They typically apply their results to technology enhanced learning, access to music and 'research2.0′.

What is this talk all about?

Open Learning Analytics

Learning is about empowerment. So, learning should be available to everybody. Open learning focuses on removing barriers and creating networks for authentic learning rather than the fake learning that characterizes much of formal education nowadays. As learning networks can involve thousands and as the interactions can be intense, the experience is sometimes overwhelming. However, as most activities take place on-line, we can collect the 'digital exhaust' in a Quantified Self approach to learning. Some use these traces for Educational Data Mining, in order to steer learners in the right direction. We believe more in a Learning Analytics approach where the relevant data are presented in an actionable way, in dashboards that put the learner in control.