Following a multi-year pilot in the Teaching Innovation Incubator, the EdTech Steering Committee has decided to discontinue Performance+. Insights from usage data, focus groups, and stakeholder consultations will inform a broader, long-term approach to learning analytics at the University of Waterloo.
Performance+ Pilot Concludes in the Teaching Innovation Incubator
Over the past two years, instructors and staff piloted Performance+ in LEARN courses and shared extensive feedback. After reviewing usage patterns, conducting focus groups, and consulting with both learning-analytics practitioners and teams already building custom solutions, the EdTech Steering Committee has decided not to continue licensing Performance+.
This decision reflects several persistent challenges with the tool: difficulty navigating the interface, limited dashboard customization, a steep learning curve for advanced features, and constrained export options. In addition, reliance on the completeness and consistency of course-level LEARN data makes it hard to assemble a holistic picture of student progress.
Looking ahead, institutional resources will be directed toward a coordinated learning analytics strategy and implementation plan—one that leverages existing work within faculties and academic support units, reviews data governance and retention practices, and builds capacity where needed.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the pilot and shared insights. If you’re interested in contributing to the next phase of learning analytics planning and processes, please reach out to the project team at tii@uwaterloo.ca.