Learning Analytics in a Web3D Based Inquiry Learning Environment

Abstract

The use of inquiry-based learning methods is the first step to introduce STEM education, which is based on problem solving in actual situations and promotes cooperation among learners. Many educators have carried out practical explorations based on inquiry-based learning. With the development of modern information technology and transformation of education, how to design learning environment for inquiry learning has become an important issue. In order to leverage the advantages of virtual experiments in science education, the concepts of inquiry learning and Web3D technology have been integrated into virtual experiments to improve its learner experience. The purpose of this study is to introduce learning analytics into inquiry-based learning environments. This chapter mainly reviews and summarizes the application research of learning analysis technology in inquiry learning under the background of big data, including big data in education, Learning Analytics (LA)-related concepts and models, knowledge graph, Learner Profile (LP), visual technology, and related case analysis. A general framework includes three specific application branches in Web3D inquiry-based learning environment with the process of "data collection and processing – learning behavior analytics – learner modeling – learning recommendation."