Transparency through exploration approach for transparent learning analytics¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · 1 claim (1 for) · 1 study (1 qualitative), q2 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 1 claim rests on one study

Description¶

The article adopts a transparency through exploration approach, in which transparency of the LA process is achieved by giving users interactive, exploratory control over how indicators are produced, rather than only exposing data or providing post hoc explanations. Drawing on Shneiderman's exploratory UIs, it empowers stakeholders to "create transparent LA indicators and take full control over the indicator implementation process by giving them access to the data and the analysis and visualization methods underpinning the indicators."

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• The LA system must be understandable, easy to use, and intuitive for all stakeholders, including lay users
• Users' inputs must be actionable so they can control and modify them

Constraints¶

• The article focuses on process transparency centred on the LA process rather than data transparency

Target Learners¶

• students
• teachers
• researchers

Target Learning Objectives¶

• understanding how LA indicators are generated
• building trust in LA systems

Claims¶

• Supporting user interaction and control in the indicator implementation process positively affects transparency, trust, satisfaction, and acceptance in LA [+W]

Related Theories¶

• Human-centred learning analytics (HCLA) with active stakeholder involvement in the post-production phase

Examples¶

• Indicator Editor: a no-code SSLA tool for user-controlled LA indicator implementation
• Provide different levels of controllability to meet diverse stakeholder needs

Key Sources¶

• Joarder, S., & Chatti, M. A. (2026). Human-Centred Development of Indicators for Self-Service Learning Analytics: A Transparency through Exploration Approach. Journal of Learning Analytics, 13(1), 163-189. https://doi.org/10.18608/jla.2026.8921