Abstract:

Learning Analytics infrastructures and Learning Analytics Dashboards (LADs) have become essential tools, providing visualizations that facilitate student self-reflection and empower instructors with data-driven feedback. However, instructional design remains a complex and time-intensive process that often fails to effectively bridge the chasm between educational Big Data and meaningful pedagogical practice. This doctoral research plan addresses this challenge by utilizing a Design-Based Research (DBR) methodology to adapt Learning Analytics (LA) infrastructure and dashboards within the authentic context of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU).

The study follows a three-phase DBR cycle:
(1) Analysis and Exploration,
(2) Design and Construction, and
(3) Evaluation and Reflection.

A core original contribution of this research is the conceptualization of the ‘Iterative Bridge’ framework. This framework acts as a mediator that harmonizes multimodal data streams specifically video interactions and quiz behaviors with Connectivism pedagogy, where learning is viewed as the dynamic orchestration of network nodes. Central to the technical implementation is the Excalibur LA infrastructure, which leverages xAPI and scalable engines to ensure the high query speeds necessary for providing immediate, uninterrupted feedback loops. The research focuses on developing validated design principles for adapting LA systems. For students, the research explores how personalized dashboards can enhance self-regulated learning and engagement. For educators, the focus is on dedicated feedback dashboards that link video analytics with quiz performance to inform the data-driven design of video-based course resources. For instructional designer and developers, this research seeks to provide a blueprint for smart instructional design, transforming Learning Analytics into a proactive mediator that optimizes the learning experience in modern higher education institutions. Ultimately, by establishing a validated link between real-time analytics and instructional adaptation, this research seeks to transform Learning Analytics from a descriptive tool into a proactive mediator that optimizes the learning experience in modern Higher Education Institutions(HEIs).

Keywords:

Learning Analytics (LA), Learning Analytics Dashboards (LADs), Design-Based Research, Excalibur, xAPI, Instructional Design.