A strong example of embedded analytics in education is the Moodle learning management system, especially with added analytics tools. In their 2016 article, “Using Learning Analytics to Assess Student Learning in Online Courses,” Florence Martin and Abdou Ndoye examine how LMS data—such as log-ins and grades—can help instructors better understand student activity.

How Analytics Work in Moodle

Moodle tracks a variety of student behaviors, including:

• Frequency of module access
• Time spent on quizzes and activities
• Log-in times
• Assignment submission dates

The platform also collects assessment data like:

• Quiz and assignment scores
• Participation in discussion forums

Analytics tools, such as Tableau or Many Eyes (used in Martin and Ndoye’s study), process this information and present it visually through graphs or alerts. This visualization helps instructors quickly identify trends and spot students who may be struggling.

Benefits of Learning Analytics

• Early Intervention: Analytics can flag students who log in infrequently or spend little time on coursework, allowing instructors to provide support before problems escalate.
• Course Improvement: Data can reveal which parts of the course are underused or consistently lead to poor performance, giving instructors a chance to adjust materials or pacing.
• Student Self-Awareness: Some systems let students view their own analytics, helping them recognize if they are falling behind and encouraging them to change their habits.

Limitations of Analytics

• Incomplete Picture: Metrics like log-ins or clicks do not always reflect actual learning. Some students may interact frequently but still face challenges, while others succeed with minimal online activity by studying offline.
• Limited Scope: Analytics only capture what happens within Moodle and cannot account for learning that takes place offline, through printed materials, or in discussions outside the platform.
• Not a Guarantee: While analytics can highlight potential issues, they do not guarantee that a student is struggling or succeeding.

Conclusion

Moodle and similar systems with embedded analytics provide valuable insights by tracking student activity and assessment data. These tools help instructors identify at-risk students, refine course design, and encourage student reflection. However, analytics have limitations—they cannot measure motivation, offline study, or true engagement—so their insights should be used thoughtfully and alongside other teaching strategies.