Data analytics
Behaviour indicators of
engaged vs. disengaged users
The focus of this research was to take a deep dive into the psychology behind why people make the online comments they do and how this can inform how we interact with learners in the online learning environment. It was also an exercise in exploring what the meaning of engagement means in the online space.
The context for the research is the Netflix series titled Adolescence; a fictional but documentary-style series of 4 episodes about a murder investigation of a 14-year-old boy set in England. The act of social listening in online comments guided the methodology behind the research.
Communalytic was used to scrape data from two different YouTube video comment threads. A thematic analysis of the posts was created to find trends.
Understanding more about user behaviour, how users engage in online forums can inform how we can improve our interaction with learners online and can how to recognise indicators of an engaged vs. disengaged learner.
Data analytics
Early risk detection research
The target audience for this research project is TAFE students studying online full-time. These learners are a broad mix from school leavers looking for alternative career pathways to adult learners looking to change careers or sharpen skills. Recent data from the institute has shown student withdrawals in 2025 have increased. Students who reported disengaged as their reason for withdrawal has risen by 24%.
The institute is undergoing a review of how to improve the student online experience from onboarding to completion. This report aimed to monitor online behaviour to identify the early warning signs of disengagement. Disengagement in the online space is defined by the institute as low participation, missed deadlines and withdrawals.
Guiding research questions:
What online behaviours predict student disengagement?
How can data dashboards support early intervention?
In summary, the quantitative data reinforces the qualitative findings that students at risk of disengagement need more teacher connection, timely feedback and guidance on how to navigate the learning platform.
