Learning Analytics as a Tool for Improvement and Reflection on Instructional Design Practices

In this book chapter, we provide guidelines and best practices to instructional designers working in higher education settings on how to use learning analytics to support and inform design decisions. We start by defining learning analytics and frame such a definition from a practitioner point of view. Then, we share best practices on how to use learning analytics to support and inform design decisions in designing courses in higher education. We share examples of learning analytics—through screenshots—gathered from our instructional design experience in higher education and comment on what implications such examples have on design decisions. We conclude by sharing a list of commonly available tools that support gathering learning analytics that instructional designers can put at their disposal throughout the design process, and in conducting needs analyses and formative/summative evaluations.