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Using data and evidence in all our decision-making

We aim to consult widely and hear different points of view in all our decision-making, and to arrive at decisions that everyone gets behind because they can see the benefits and have the evidence. Our huge amounts of data are strategic assets for the OU in making decisions about opportunities and risks, and we will continue investing in capabilities to derive insights from our data that inform our decisions and build common purpose. More powerful and accessible presentation of data through dashboards, for example, will enable us to track the outcome of decisions and take timely corrective action if necessary, and more frequent student feedback will enable us to act more quickly to resolve issues. This will be done in ways that accord with high standards of security and ethics.

As a provider of supported distance learning using dedicated technologies as well as tutors and advisers, we get to know our students and learners through the many digital interactions we have with them as well as their relationships with tutors and advisers. We have considerable and growing capabilities to build knowledge and behavioural insight from our data that can help tailor support to the personal needs and circumstances of our students, connecting them to the information, advice and guidance that is most suited to their needs.

Over the next five years we will:

  • develop our evidence-based decision-making capabilities by using the investments we are making in data management as a way to make more inclusive, more timely and better decisions.
  • take opportunities to use AI ethically in support of student and university success.
  • use data analysis to personalise student experiences to ensure we connect with them at the right time and in the right way. The aim is to better support students during their studies and streamline time consuming administrative processes.
  • prioritise data analytics work which informs and drives action for change in support of achieving greater equity, diversity and inclusion.