Learning Analytics rises several challenges in the context of online and campus-based learning and discussions often connect the topic to privacy of tracking data, use of personal data control and security. Several recent studies show the importance of goal-setting and personal monitoring on sense of achievement, ownership of learning and autonomy.

In this PhD project it will be investigated:  what kind of data in Learning Analytics seems to be useful for learners and educators and how these data can be used to develop a stronger sense of learner’s achievement, higher self-regulation skills and motivation, as also a feeling of control of their own learning processes. After identifying the data sources available in the organizational learning support the project should focus on b) alternative personal indicators of learning by using approaches like the “Quantified Self” and methods as “Experience Sampling” to collect more authentic and relevant data for monitoring learning processes. In a next step c) prototyping and lab experiments will be used in the project to develop design principles for implementing personalized analytics and quantification interventions. In cooperation with technical support in the Leiden- Delft- Erasmus (LDE) Center for education and Learning (CEL) network in the last phase also summative evaluations building on existing learning analytics tools in the learning environments of the LDE Universities will be conducted.

This PhD project takes place within the strategic alliance of Leiden University, Delft University and Erasmus University (LDE) in the context of the Center of Education and Learning (CEL). All studies will be presented at national (e.g., SURF, ORD) and international conferences (e.g., LAK, EARLI) as well as presented to high-quality peer-reviewed journals (e.g., Computer & Education, The Internet and Higher Education, Journal of Educational Psychology, Metacognition & Learning), with a preference for open access and open science. Also, presentations, publications or workshops for stakeholders from educational practice will be part of the output from this project.

• Master's degree (preferably Research Master) in Cognitive or Educational Psychology, Educational Science, or a related study program;
• outstanding research qualities, manifested a high-quality Master’s thesis and possible also publications or contributions to conferences/workshops;
• excellent written and spoken English;
• keen interest in interdisciplinary research methods and approaches;
• ability and willingness to work in team across multiple universities;
• willingness to travel abroad for research stays, conferences and project expert workshops;
• strong social and organizational skills.

Internationally-oriented and varied work within an enthusiastic team, with attractive fringe benefits in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU). Your initial employment term will be 1 year, the contract will be extended with 3 years if your performance proves satisfactory. Your remuneration will according the P scale for PhD candidates. It will be calculated on the basis of full-time salary ranging between EUR 2325,- and 2972,- gross per year (salary scale P, CAO NU ). Erasmus University Rotterdam offers attractive terms of employment, including a holiday allowance of 8%, a year-end payment of 8.3% and 41 annual leave days in case of a full work week. In addition, EUR takes part in the ABP pension scheme, and we also offer partially paid parental leave. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Moreover, EUR staff members are allowed to make use of the EUR facilities, including the Erasmus sports centre and the University Library. We value diversity and believe that a diversity of talents contributes to our vision and strategy to excel as a university on research and education. This means that we are looking for a person who can complement our team well.

Erasmus University Rotterdam

The Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR), named after Rotterdam-born humanist and theologian Erasmus, is a research university with a strong international orientation and a pronounced social focus, both in its education and research activities. On the lively, modern campus, more than 28.000 students and scholars of more than 100 nationalities are constantly encouraged to develop their talents and meet their ambition. Our more than 2700 scientists and employees work together with all our students to solve challenges faced by global society, drawing their inspiration from the consistently dynamic and cosmopolitan city of Rotterdam. The academic education offered at our faculties is intensive, engaging and strongly focused on practical application. We increasingly perform our research in multidisciplinary teams, which are closely interwoven with international networks. In terms of research impact and the quality of its degree programmes, EUR can compete with the foremost universities in Europe, which is reflected in its consistent top-100 position in most major universities rankings. Erasmus University Rotterdam’s key values are daring, curiosity, social involvement, breaking new ground and striving for success www.eur.nl.

Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences (ESSB)

The Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences (ESSB) is home to a vast diversity of scientific disciplines: public administration, pedagogical sciences, psychology and sociology. In addition, the Erasmus University College, IHS, and two research institutes RISBO and DRIFT are linked to the faculty. This also reflects in the content of the (international) bachelor's and master's programs and in research.  Our activities are always focused on people and society. At the ESSB fundamental, internationally oriented research is of paramount importance. In addition, social research for professionals, policy makers, and the society is part of our research activities. ESSB offers a stimulating research environment where major national and international research grants are received. Appealing guest researchers and ambitious PhD candidates come along to conduct their research. Our education is small-scale and works with innovative forms of education such as Problem-Based Learning (PBL). Both the Dutch and English programs are highly ranked by students and alumni. ESSB is home to over 4000 students and more than 400 staff-members. The different disciplines are supported by the Faculty Office (for more information, please visit www.eur.nl/essb).

Department of Psychology, Education & Child Studies (DPECS)

The Department of Psychology, Education & Child Studies provides education and research in the area of pedagogical and psychological sciences and is embedded within the Faculty of Social Science. The education is characterized by a successful and innovative didactical approach: problem based learning in combination with extensive professional and academic skills training. Our bachelor and master tracks receive top rankings each year.