LEARNING ANALYTICS – HOW DATA TRANSFORMS E-LEARNING

Every successful e-learning programme relies not just on modern technology and interactive content, but also on a clear analysis of the learning process. But how can organisations ensure that their training programmes are truly effective? The key lies in what’s known as ‘learning analytics’. To make this topic easier to grasp, let’s take a closer look at an example:

Markus, an experienced learning manager, is facing a familiar challenge: his company is investing heavily in digital training, but the impact remains difficult to measure – or is only vaguely quantifiable. He wants to understand things more clearly: Which content truly works? Where do learners start to lose interest? And how can the training process be improved?

His journey into the world of e-learning analytics is about to begin.

THE START OF THE JOURNEY: WHAT IS LEARNING ANALYTICS ALL ABOUT?

As Markus delves into the topic of learning analytics, he quickly realises it goes well beyond tracking basic performance. E-Learning analytics allows for precise measurement of learning behaviour and progress, helping to optimise learning processes and implement targeted improvements.

Data helps him to:

✔ Evaluating the effectiveness of individual training modules objectively.

✔ Identifying areas of weakness within courses.

✔ Increase the overall effectiveness of training initiatives.

With a powerful learning management system (LMS) like GLOBAL TEACH®, he is able to analyse the key metrics and take targeted action to improve the learning offering. 

DISCOVERING THE MOST VALUABLE METRICS: WHAT DO THE NUMBERS REALLY SAY?

Not every statistic matters – but which ones truly provide meaningful insights? Markus begins to examine the most important Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Learning progress: Which modules have been completed, and which remain untouched

• Completion rates: How many employees successfully finish their courses?

• Time investment: On average, how long does it take to finish a course?

• Engagement data: How active are the learners? Are there modules where interest declines?

What Markus finds particularly intriguing is how to measure success in E-LEARNING FOR COMPANIES. Completion rates alone say little about whether the material has truly been understood and retained. He needs deeper insights.

THE SECRET BEHIND DATA INTERPRETATION: TURNING NUMBERS INTO INSIGHT

Markus quickly realises: numbers alone are not enough. The real challenge lies in interpreting them. Learning analytics enables him to draw meaningful insights from basic metrics.

A practical example:

One particular e-learning module has an unusually high dropout rate. Does this mean the content is too difficult? Or is the presentation not engaging enough? Markus digs deeper into the data and discovers that the average completion time is exceptionally long. So, the problem isn’t the level of difficulty – it’s the sheer volume of content. Splitting the module into smaller, more manageable units could be the solution.

With this insight, Markus can make targeted changes and further refine how he measures e-learning success. By repeating this process on an ongoing basis, he follows the well-established PDCA cycle: Plan – Do – Check – Act. This method of continuously monitoring progress and responding to emerging needs allows Markus to drive long-term success in digital learning and development.

THE POWER OF PERSONALISATION: HOW LEARNING ANALYTICS ENABLE TAILORED LEARNING PATHS

One of the key benefits of learning analytics is its ability to create personalised learning paths. After all, not every employee learns at the same pace or requires the same content.

Through E-LEARNING, Markus can develop tailored learning plans that meet individual needs:

✔ Employees who progress quickly are given more advanced content.

✔ Learners who face challenges receive targeted support and additional practice.

✔ Dynamic course adjustments ensure a more engaging and motivating experience.

He recognises that learning analytics is not merely a monitoring tool, but a means of supporting individual development and achieving better long-term results.

A LOOK BEHIND THE SCENES: HOW COMPANIES ADAPT LEARNING STRATEGIES USING ANALYTICS

The data Markus collects benefits not only individual employees, but the organisation as a whole.

A practical example:

A company notices that managers frequently drop out of a specific module on change management. An analysis of the feedback data reveals the reason: while the content is relevant, it’s too theoretical. The solution? Either enhance the module with more interactive elements, practical examples, and real-world case studies to improve engagement, or split the content—starting with a theoretical e-learning module, followed by a hands-on course to support practical application.

With GLOBAL TEACH®, SWISSTEACH offers companies a comprehensive platform to carry out exactly these kinds of data-driven improvements.

The Future of E-Learning Analytics: Artificial Intelligence and Automation as Enablers

Markus is already looking ahead. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are set to enhance learning analytics in meaningful ways.

✔ Predicting learning needs: AI can identify which topics are likely to become relevant for specific employees.

✔ Automatic course adjustments: Courses adapt individually based on progress and feedback.

✔ Intelligent chatbots and virtual tutors: These provide targeted support precisely when learners need it.

These technologies are making e-learning analytics more precise, efficient, and impactful — allowing companies to refine their training strategies even further.

THE PATH TO SMARTER LEARNING WITH E-LEARNING ANALYTICS

Markus has come to realise that learning analytics is much more than a collection of numbers. It is a vital tool for optimising digital training, developing personalised learning paths, and measuring the success of training efforts.

Through e-learning analytics, companies benefit from:

✔ Higher completion rates and improved learning outcomes.

✔ More efficient, tailored training programmes.

✔ Data-driven decisions for strategic learning development.

With SWISSTEACH as your partner, your organisation can make the most of learning analytics and elevate its training strategy. Those who understand and optimise their training measures establish a strong basis for long-term success — both for their employees and for the business as a whole.

If you have any questions about learning analytics or DIGITAL EMPLOYEE TRAINING, feel free to send us a REQUEST at any time.