Executive Summary and Main Points
In a recent webinar entitled ‘Think like a People Scientist’, the Viva People Science team addressed strategies for influencing internal stakeholders in the realm of organizational development and analytics. Joe Dunn and Beth Demko, both specialists in People Science, shared insights on navigating the Glint platform to design, administer, and report on surveys, as well as on fostering behavior change without having direct authority. Innovative methodologies and best practices in survey-driven initiatives were highlighted, reflecting an increasing trend in data-informed decision making and the strategic use of analytics in the global higher education and corporate sectors.
Potential Impact in the Education Sector
The insights from the webinar have implications for Further Education, Higher Education, and the area of Micro-credentials. In the context of educational institutions, these methodologies could enhance the process of gathering and applying student, faculty, and stakeholder feedback, thereby informing curricular changes, institutional strategies, and policy making. The integration of survey tools and behavioral analytics can also facilitate strategic partnerships, enabling data sharing and joint initiatives between academic entities and corporate organizations. Digitalization efforts, such as the implementation of the Glint process, can streamline feedback mechanisms and support continual improvement in educational environments.
Potential Applicability in the Education Sector
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital tools, emerging from the corporate sector, offer numerous applications in higher education. AI-driven analytics can personalize learning experiences, enhance student engagement, and predict student success. When integrated into education systems, these technologies can transform survey data into actionable insights for curriculum design, campus life, and alumni relations. Moreover, they can play a critical role in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives by identifying gaps and informing targeted interventions. The Viva People Science approach underscores the potential of embracing a data-centric culture within educational policy development and administration.
Criticism and Potential Shortfalls
While the application of these People Science technologies is promising, it also warrants a critical eye. Overreliance on quantitative data may overlook nuanced individual and cultural differences within the global education sector. Comparative case studies suggest that one-size-fits-all analytics approaches can fail to capture localized educational practices or the specific needs of diverse student populations. Furthermore, ethical concerns such as data privacy, consent, and the potential misuse of analytics for profiling or tracking students and faculty need to be addressed meticulously. Culturally sensitive and context-aware adoption of these tools is paramount to avoid exacerbating existing inequities within educational systems.
Actionable Recommendations
To effectively implement these technologies in higher education, leadership should first establish a clear framework for ethical data use and privacy protection. Next, pilot programs can be initiated to integrate AI and survey analytics in specific areas such as student services or course evaluations to measure effectiveness and adjust strategies accordingly. Training initiatives for educators and administrators are essential to ensure competencies in interpreting and leveraging data insights. Lastly, fostering cross-sector partnerships can facilitate knowledge exchange, providing educational institutions with the necessary expertise and tools to navigate digital transformation successfully. By strategically adopting these technologies, international education systems can enhance their responsiveness and adaptability in an ever-evolving global landscape.
Source article: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-viva-blog/think-like-a-people-scientist-influencing-action-without/ba-p/4122625