Learning Analytics as a Strategy to Improve Education in Virtual Environments

Digital technologies and virtual learning environments (VLEs) play a fundamental role in education. Through learning analytics (LA), data generated in VLEs can be collected and analyzed to enhance the learning process. However, the use of these environments' information must be optimized. Therefore, this essay aims to examine how the analysis of this data can enhance the teaching-learning process and improve academic outcomes. The investigator presents research and examples illustrating the implementation of LA in various educational contexts, including its application in Latin America encompassing Costa Rica. Furthermore, the paper is based on a documentary analysis that utilizes search criteria and material selection to support the arguments pres ented. Relevant publications on LA in higher education, data analysis in VLEs, and personalized learning through LA have been considered. Additionally, the author employed search engines and databases such as Google Scholar, EBSCO, and SCOPUS, among others, using keywords like learning analytics, online education, educational technology, and learning assessment. LA arises from the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in the educational context. Data analysis facilitates the improvement of the teaching and learning process by providing meaningful and timely feedback to both students and teachers. Research in the field of LA predominantly originates from European countries, South Korea, China, and North America. In terms of Latin America, this field is growing while Colombia, Brazil, and Ecuador stand out as the main producers in the region. However, in Costa Rica, LA is still developing, and there are few publications on the topic. In conclusion, despite its incipient growth in the region, including Costa Rica, the implementation of LA has the potential to strengthen the teaching and learning process.