A Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on engineering mechanics: data analytics informing learning design and improvement

Our MOOC on Engineering Mechanics aims to develop in our learners 'Engineers' eyes'. Over 50 small videos support three interdependent strands: experiments that learners can do themselves; classical Engineering Analysis; and design applications. Learning activities span the technology spectrum from on-line Adaptive Tutorials to paper and pencil 'Retro Tutorials'. It all produces a flood of data on student backgrounds, their progression, and their response to the course. To avoid being overwhelmed by this invaluable resource, we have automated the analysis. Attrition rates are typical of MOOCs (despite continuous improvement), but learners who stay the course give glowing reports.