Big data – disruptive, distracting or adding value?

This Stimulus Paper maps uses of data that create, directly or indirectly, value for education providers, with an emphasis on online education. It presents various pathways currently being explored by universities, for example massive open online course (Mooc) providers. It uses short case studies to illustrate the challenges and opportunities that arise. These provide useful insights into information governance, ethical debates and untapped potential that, if harnessed appropriately, could be transformative rather than being seen as disruptive.