The current trends and opportunities for machine learning in learning analytics

The goal of this article is to provide a brief review including the current trends and opportunities of the areas of research within the field of Learning Analytics (LA) and the Machine Learning (ML) to improve the educational experience of students. We begin by explaining the purpose of LA to help adapt computerized systems and inform teachers of student's knowledge, cognitive processes, and even affective states. Next, we provide a primer on ML models that are often included in LA. We then explain how LA with ML can adapt and provide recommendations based on students' needs as well as immediate feedback to students and score reports to teachers and other stakeholders. Finally, we address the current trends and opportunities within LA and how within this current time in history LA could be more useful than ever in helping all students achieve their educational goals.