Postgraduate Certificate in Using Data to Identify At-Risk Students
Published on June 28, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm excited to be speaking with Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in educational data analysis and the lead instructor for the Postgraduate Certificate in Using Data to Identify At-Risk Students. Dr. Smith, can you tell us a bit about your personal experiences with this topic? GUEST: Absolutely, I've spent over 15 years working in higher education, and I've seen firsthand how data can be used to support students in a more targeted and effective way. HOST: That's fascinating. And what current trends are you seeing in the industry when it comes to using data to identify at-risk students? GUEST: There's a growing emphasis on predictive modeling and machine learning, which allow us to identify at-risk students earlier and more accurately. Additionally, there's a greater focus on using data visualization tools to make data more accessible and actionable for educators and support staff. HOST: Yes, I can imagine how those techniques could be incredibly powerful. But, as with any new technology, there must be challenges that come along with it. What challenges have you seen in the field or while teaching this subject? GUEST: One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that educators and support staff have the necessary skills and training to effectively use these tools. Additionally, there can be concerns around data privacy and security, which we address in the course. HOST: That's definitely important. Now, looking to the future, where do you see this area or industry headed? GUEST: I believe we'll continue to see more sophisticated use of data in higher education, with a greater focus on personalized learning and early intervention. I also think we'll see more integration of data across different areas of student support, such as academic advising, mental health services, and financial aid. HOST: That sounds like an exciting future for the field. Thank you, Dr. Smith, for sharing your insights and expertise with us today. And for our listeners, be sure to check out the Postgraduate Certificate in Using Data to Identify At-Risk Students, and transform your approach to student support!
