Using Excel Macros to Analyse Moodle Logs

Konstantinidis, Andreas and Grafton, Cat (2013) Using Excel Macros to Analyse Moodle Logs. In: 2nd Moodle Research Conference (MRC2013), 4th and 5th October, 2013, Sousse, Tunisia.

Preview

Text Using Excel Macros to Analyse Moodle Logs.pdf Download (677kB) | Preview

Abstract

Learning analytics enables tutors to gain useful insights on the behaviour of students in an online learning environment. This information can then be utilised to customize the educational space, optimize the learning resources and activities, and personalize the student experience. This paper presents our approach to analysing the data of users’ behaviours that are recorded in the Moodle logs. Currently, the Moodle logs manager suffers from functional limitations and uninspiring visualizations. Our method utilises the possibility of downloading the logs in Microsoft Excel format and provides a simple and effective offline solution. The method we have developed is based on Excel macros and visual basic. Tutors can experiment with different combinations of metrics such as total page views, unique users, unique actions, IP addresses, unique pages, average session length and bounce rate. Furthermore, the software allows the definition of date ranges and the selection of individual or groups of students. The complicated processes of analysing and combining data are carried out in the background, enabling tutors to focus on the pedagogic implications and invest in practical, realistic scenarios through informed decision-making. Future work includes transferring the offline functionality to an online Moodle plugin and increasing system intelligence to allow the production of meaningful and actionable suggestions with regards to set target goals.

Actions (login required)

View Item