A Critical Analysis of Learning Technologies and Informal Learning in Online Social Networks Using Learning Analytics

Abstract— This paper presents a critical analysis of the current
application of big data in higher education and how Learning
Analytics (LA), and Educational Data Mining (EDM) are helping to
shape learning in higher education institutions that have applied the
concepts successfully. An extensive literature review of Learning
Analytics, Educational Data Mining, Learning Management Systems,
Informal Learning and Online Social Networks are presented to
understand their usage and trends in higher education pedagogy
taking advantage of 21st century educational technologies and
platforms. The roles of and benefits of these technologies in teaching
and learning are critically examined. Imperatively, this study
provides vital information for education stakeholders on the
significance of establishing a teaching and learning agenda that takes
advantage of today’s educational relevant technologies to promote
teaching and learning while also acknowledging the difficulties of
21st-century learning. Aside from the roles and benefits of these
technologies, the review highlights major challenges and research
needs apparent in the use and application of these technologies. It
appears that there is lack of research understanding in the challenges
and utilization of data effectively for learning analytics, despite the
massive educational data generated by high institutions. Also due to
the growing importance of LA, there appears to be a serious lack of
academic research that explore the application and impact of LA in
high institution, especially in the context of informal online social
network learning. In addition, high institution managers seem not to
understand the emerging trends of LA which could be useful in the
running of higher education. Though LA is viewed as a complex and
expensive technology that will culturally change the future of high
institution, the question that comes to mind is whether the use of LA
in relation to informal learning in online social network is really what
is expected? A study to analyze and evaluate the elements that
influence high usage of OSN is also needed in the African context. It
is high time African Universities paid attention to the application and
use of these technologies to create a simplified learning approach
occasioned by the use of these technologies.
Keywords: Learning Analytics, Educational Data Mining,
Informal Learning, Online Social Network.