Learning Analytics in ILIAS based on xAPI

Jan 27, 2020

Learning Analytics in ILIAS based on xAPI
 

Our colleague Göran Kattenberg gave the interesting presentation ‘The potential for Learning Analytics in ILIAS based on xAPI, next to LTI‘ at the International ILIAS Conference in Dresden. Now that the recordings of the presentations have been published, we would naturally like to share Görans story here.

 

Göran was involved in the development of SCORM 2.0 via LETSI in 2008. This was based on an actual experience with a customer at that time. SCORM 2.0 was eventually abandoned threatening to become too complex as a successor to SCORM. However, most ideas developed for SCORM 2.0 were actually used in the xAPI in 2013. An interesting concept in xAPI is the use of layers to address the complexity issue. Working with layers is interesting and useful for an implementation model in ILIAS (from minimal vaible to more added value over time). The layered principle makes it possible to deal with the inherent complexity of data analysis and learning analysis.

 

A description of the xAPI-layers

Layer 1:

The Experience API is a modernized version of SCORM that frees us from the obsolete constructs of the past. So, xAPI is actually designed as a successor to SCORM at the most basic level. This means more robust APIs and implementation scenarios (import package, start from server – such as with AICC, offline – eg mobile phone or VR headset). This is already a huge added value for users/customers, as current SCORM implementations (not those in ILIAS!) can be very unreliable. This requires a good launch mechanism (which LTI and also CMI5 provides).

Layer 2:

The Experience API allows us to record any learning experience, including informal learning, giving us a much richer picture of an individual’s learning path. A few examples are: interactive video tracking, 360 interactive multibranching video, simulations, (multiplayer) serious games, social multiplayer experiences and quests. These forms of informal learning are becoming increasingly common at all levels, including in the university world.

Layer 3:

The Experience API frees your data from the confines of your siloed LMS. All data is available outside of the LMS as well, for additional data processing and creating drill-down reporting, dashboard etc. also on anonymous data (most scientific data is anonymous anyway).

Layer 4:

The Experience API is capable of achieving the holy grail sought by training departments everywhere. Through correlating job performance data with training data to assess training effectiveness and much more. Training data can be combined and compared with real-world data, such as actual work performance, so the effectivity of training and education can be correlated with actual performance. And isn’t that what learning is all about in the end.

 

International ILIAS Conference

This presentation was one of many presentations and workshops during the 18th International ILIAS Conference on 26 and 27 September 2019 in Dresden. Also take a look at the other presentations that have been filmed. And what else the program offered. This annual event is definitely worth a visit!
The next conference will be held in Dortmund on 10 and 11 September 2020.

 

NOTE: The filming of the presentations can only be found in the blue column (always click on ‘Weiterlesen’) of the German-language ILIAS Conference site.