Interconnected Digital Learner Records and Data Governance in Higher Education: Toward Smart, Evidence-Based Student Management in Vietnam and Singapore
Hoàng Ngọc Sơn and Trần Thị Vân Dung
29 Views | 12 Downloads
Abstract:
The rapid digital transformation of higher education has intensified the need for effective educational data governance and integrated learner information systems. Despite significant investments in digital technologies, many higher education and vocational institutions continue to face challenges arising from fragmented databases, limited interoperability, and the persistence of organizational data silos. This study examines the role of interconnected Digital Learner Records (DLRs) as a strategic mechanism for enhancing evidence-based governance, learner support, and institutional decision-making within the context of higher education in Vietnam. Drawing upon Connectivism theory and contemporary data governance frameworks, the study employs an exploratory mixed-methods approach involving surveys of 50 educational administrators, lecturers, and staff members, complemented by in-depth interviews with 15 institutional stakeholders. The findings reveal that fragmented data systems contribute to administrative inefficiencies, duplicated processes, inconsistent information, and reduced capacity for timely intervention and personalized learner support. Building upon these findings, the study proposes a four-pillar governance framework comprising unique learner identifiers, interoperable data architecture, learning analytics dashboards, and accountability-driven data governance mechanisms. Comparative insights from Singapore’s digitally integrated educational ecosystem further illustrate how coordinated data infrastructures can support smart governance and learner-centred educational practices. The study contributes to the growing discourse on educational digital transformation by offering a practical roadmap for institutions seeking to transition from fragmented administrative management toward integrated, data-informed, and service-oriented governance models.
Keywords:
Digital learner records; Educational data governance; Data interoperability; Learning analytics; Higher education management; Digital transformation; Personalized learning; Evidence-based governance; Student information systems; Vietnam; Singapore.
Citation: Hoàng Ngọc Sơn and Trần Thị Vân Dung (2026). Interconnected Digital Learner Records and Data Governance in Higher Education: Toward Smart, Evidence-Based Student Management in Vietnam and Singapore. Horizon J. Hum. Soc. Sci. Res. 8 (1), 196–214. https://doi.org/10.37534/bp.jhssr.2026.v8.n1.id1366.p196
Download Full PDF
