Predictive analytics of active learning based education

Abstract

Learning Analytics (LA) is defined as the collection, measurement, and analysis of data related to student performance such that the feedback from the analytical insights can be used to optimize student learning and improve student outcomes. Blended Learning (BL) is a teaching paradigm that involves a mix of face-to-face interactions in a classroom based setting along with instructional material distributed through an online medium. In this thesis, we explore the role of a blended learning model coupled with learning analytics in an introductory programming class for non-computer science students. We identify the features that were necessary for setting up the infrastructure of the course. These include discussions on preparing the course content materials and producing assignment exercises. We then talk about the various dynamics that were in play during the duration of the class by describing the interplay between watching video tutorials, listening to mini-lectures and performing active learning exercises that are backed by modern software development practices. Lastly, we spend time analyzing the data collected to create a predictive model that can measure student performance by defining the specifications of a machine learning algorithm along with many of its adjustable parameters. The system thus created will allow instructors to identify possible outliers in teaching efficacy, the feedback from which could then be used to tune course material for the betterment of student outcomes.