Monitoring academic progress and identifying issues early on is critical for educational institutions. Without up-to-date information on students’ situations, guidance can easily be based on assumptions. This is particularly true for work-based learning, where instructors do not have continuous visibility into day-to-day activities.
Oulu University of Applied Sciences aims to improve monitoring studies using Workseed’s Data API. With the API, data from Workseed can be leveraged more broadly for data-driven decision-making and learning monitoring.
Oulu UAS improves data-driven decision making with Workseed
Oulu UAS sought to streamline the monitoring of studies and improve knowledge-based management. The main challenges were related to work placements, theses, and project courses.
Teachers often have a limited overview of long study modules that are completed at the workplace or otherwise very independently. Without an up-to-date overview, challenges are easily identified only at a late stage. The effectiveness of guidance diminishes, and the risks of study delays increase.
Workseed is a key information system at Oulu UAS. It is used to manage internships, project courses, theses, career planning guidance, and the recognition of prior learning. The system accumulates a wealth of data, particularly on those study modules that are completed largely independently and often as part of working life.
A natural way to improve monitoring was to make more effective use of this data. Workseed’s Data API enables data to be exported for analysis or visualization in other systems.
Workseed Data API provides data for decision making
Oulu UAS is currently actively developing ways to utilize the data generated by Workseed via the Data API. Data-driven management is being developed in the following areas, for example:
A transparent foundation for resource management. A key way to use Workseed’s data is to make teachers’ workload visible. This makes it easier to identify, for example, who has the capacity to take on new mentees. This supports both a more even distribution of work and proactive planning.
Clearer tools for tracking internships and theses. Workseed generates data on workplace learning and self-directed study modules. Through the interface, it is possible to import data on the progress of these studies for analysis. It is easier for teachers to identify where students are in the process. Problems and delays can be identified more quickly, and it is easier to address them in a timely manner.
Adapting reporting to different needs. Oulu UAS has recognized that different fields of study have somewhat different practices. Using the API, data generated by Workseed can be easily imported into various reports, which can be flexibly customized to meet the needs of different fields and departments.
Oulu UAS utilizes data available via the Data API, particularly in Power BI reporting. Clear and easily interpretable views provide teachers and management with an up-to-date overview of study progress and support decision-making at various levels.
The Data API enables versatile integrations, reporting, and application development based on data generated by Workseed.
Implementation at Oulu UAS
Oulu UAS has now implemented the first version of the Data API. However, the implementation has already been described as easy, and comprehensive support and guidance have been provided for utilizing the data.
“We have received excellent support for the implementation from Workseed.”
Juha-Pekka Pihlajakoski, Head of Data Analytics
Previously, Oulu UAS handled large amounts of data from various sources. Exporting data from Workseed to the Data API has simplified data management. Old processes have been consolidated into a single application. Now, Workseed supports internships, theses, career guidance, and skills recognition.
The versatile use of Workseed has made it possible to phase out up to four previously used information systems. This simplifies the overall architecture and reduces duplicate work.
“Workseed replaces up to four other information systems.”
Data is utilized extensively at various levels at Oulu UAS. Teachers and management receive real-time information. Reporting is transparent, enabling teachers and management to access real-time data for operational planning.
Workseed Data API now available
The Workseed Data API is a standalone add-on that enables versatile integrations, reporting (e.g., Power BI), and the development of applications based on Workseed data. It is now available to all customers.
The API enables, for example:
- exporting content created on the platform
- exporting student performance and assessments
- exporting student timesheets (healthcare and social services sectors)
If you’d like to learn how your educational institution can benefit from the Data API or are interested in typical use cases for the API, you can book a demo with our experts here.
If you have questions about digital learning management, you can also download our popular buyer’s guide here. The guide explains what to consider when selecting a new tool based on user needs.
