Data analytics is revolutionising industries worldwide, and education is no exception. For educators, it offers a powerful means to understand patterns, refine approaches, and create impactful learning experiences. As technology becomes increasingly integrated into education, the role of data analytics in shaping meaningful outcomes continues to grow, driving innovation and progress.

This blog delves into the significance of data analytics in education and how educators can harness its potential to shape the future of learning.

Reports state that the market size of global big data analytics in education is expected to reach $47.82 billion by 2027, establishing a growth of 20.79% CAGR between 2021 and 2027. ¹

Challenges with conventional methods

Historically, educators relied on manual processes for tasks like attendance and grading, limited data use with manual record-keeping, and static reporting, which hindered timely responses to student performance trends, and challenges in making informed decisions due to incomplete or inaccurate data.

- For instance, up to 70% of teachers spent considerable time on paperwork for student records and assessments, which was often tedious and prone to errors. ^{2 &3}

- Studies indicate that with limited access to data analytics tools and relying on basic record-keeping, only 30% of teachers felt capable of effectively analysing student data to guide their teaching. ²

- Before 2016 or prior to the digital transformation, only 55% of K–12 teachers used technology daily, making teaching less interactive and engaging for students. ⁴

Conventional methods often employ a uniform teaching strategy that fails to accommodate individual learning styles and paces. Research indicates that nearly 70% of students find traditional classrooms unengaging due to this rigidity. ⁵

Digital transformation was imperative in the educational processes to address the inefficiencies and limitations of conventional methods. Data analytics has emerged as a powerful tool, transforming how schools, colleges, and universities operate and enhance learning outcomes.

What constitutes data analytics?

Data analytics in education encompasses the