Analytics that Inform the University

This session will describe the Center of Distributed Learning's top-down/bottom-up approach to using data for strategic decision making at the University of Central Florida. The process capitalizes on existing institutional data by designing responsive extraction models that facilitate an understanding of how the distributed learning initiative impacts virtually all aspects of the university. The top-down approach collates information about programs and modalities and the degree to which colleges and departments have implemented online initiatives. The bottom-up approach provides continuous monitoring of outcomes attributable to distributed learning. This session will demonstrate that (1) much extant university data can provide analytic insights, (2) analytics can be instrumental in strategic planning, (3) large data sets do not have to be daunting, and (4) systemic data collection and analysis is advantageous.