Development of learning analytics dashboard in open and distance learning: Learning Cloud

In this thesis which aims to present a new perspective on the applications of learning analytics in the context of open and distance learning, a new learning analytics system called Learning Cloud has been developed and investigated for its usability. The literature research of this thesis on learning analytics has been structured around a two-stage systematic approach based on citation data. In the first stage, an analysis of academic publications in the Web of Science database on learning analytics was conducted. In the second stage, learning analytics has been defined with all the details and its historical development has been revealed. Processes, techniques, tools, connected work areas and practices related to learning analytics have been examined. Finally, ethical discussions on learning analytics have been emphasised. The research process consists of three parts; development, implementation and evaluation. During the development process, the technical infrastructure of the Learning Cloud has been established and learning mechanisms and user control panels have been developed. The implementation process of the study was carried out within the scope of the EMLT open and distance learning system, which was passed down in order to reduce the education-labor conflict in Europe. In this process, the Learning Cloud was used to monitor, store and analyze the learning activities of learners participating in the EMLT Project supported by the European Union Erasmus+ Program. In the evaluation process which is final stage, analyses to determine usability of Learning Cloud have been made in context of descriptive scanning model categorized under quantitative research. In addition, it has been tried to explain statistically whether the satisfaction level of learners' use of Learning Cloud differs in terms of course success, motivation, computer and internet usage, data sharing preferences and massive open online course experience. In the last part of the study, the findings related to research questions, the results obtained on the findings and suggestions based on results have been presented. Keywords: Open And Distance Learning, Learning Analytics, Dashboards, xAPI, Experience API, Massive Open Online Courses, Learning Cloud, Learning Management Systems