Understanding the University Student Experience Through Big Data Analytics

The Student Experience

The university experience is a complex and multidimensional journey shaped by various factors that impact students' overall satisfaction, engagement, and success. Understanding these factors is crucial for universities to create supportive and enriching educational environments. Research has identified a number of factors influencing student’s experience (Gopal et al., 2021; Awidi et al., 2019; Al Kurdi et al., 2020). One of the factors is academics, which plays a pivotal role in shaping students' experiences. The quality of teaching, including pedagogical approaches, instructor-student interactions, and feedback, significantly impacts students' engagement and motivation (Chickering & Gamson, 1987). Additionally, curriculum design, including the relevance and coherence of courses, flexibility, and opportunities for experiential learning, influences students' sense of achievement and intellectual growth (Kuh et al., 2010).

Previous studies emphasize the importance of effective teaching and student engagement in shaping the student experience (Ta, Hien Thi Thu, et al., 2023; Hope, 2012). Research suggests that innovative teaching methods, interactive classroom activities, and supportive instructor-student interactions positively influence student satisfaction, motivation, and learning outcomes (McKinney et al., 2019). Engaged students tend to be more committed, involved, and satisfied with their educational experience leading to higher retention rates and academic achievement (Kahu, 2013).