Needs Analysis for Effective Implementation of Adaptive Personalised e-Learning in Higher Education: The Case of The Maldives National University

Abstract

E-learning has evolved to include advanced adaptive personalized learning environments (ALE) that cater to diverse learner needs. Systems that fail to adapt and provide uniform content are ineffective. While adaptive learning shows promise, its implementation in higher education is inconsistent, and best practices for designing and teaching adaptive courses are not well established. Therefore, in order to determine an effective approach to design and develop such an adaptive personalised e-learning environment, this study formulates the initial step of needs analysis contextualised to the Maldives National University (MNU). This analysis is guided by the integrated frameworks of Activity Theory (AT) and Personalised Learning Design Framework (PLDF). A survey was conducted among students, and interviews were held with lecturers and instructional designers. Additionally, a further analysis of relevant documents and the current LMS at MNU was performed. The results reveal that, although MNU supports personalized learning in teaching and learning practices, the current e-learning environment at MNU follows a traditional approach, providing uniform learning materials without considering the needs of learners. There is a significant need to integrate personalization concepts through adaptive e-content and provide customized learning paths within the current LMS to enhance student satisfaction and the effectiveness of e-learning at MNU.