An empirical study of user perceived usefulness and preference of open learner model visualisations

Many higher education institutions have reformed their academic programmes to adopt unit learning outcomes. It is essential for effective learning management tools to support this fundamental transformation. We see the need for a tool that provides visualisations of Open Learner Models (OLM) and associated e-portfolio content to guide students in achieving intended learning outcomes, help evidence their learning and keep them engaged in their study. OLMs surface the relationship between learning activities and tasks, formative and summative assessment, and intended learning outcomes. We have developed and validated a set of candidate visualisations for such OLMs. We report key findings from our study in terms of potential users’ feedback on our tool’s support for tracking learning progress against learning outcomes. Our findings can inform and refine learning management systems.