Goal Configurations and Processing Strategies as Moderators Between Instructional Design and Cogniti
In this article, we propose some augmentations of cognitive load theory (CLT) inspired by evidence from hypertext-based instruction. In particular, we focus on the role of goal configurations and processing strategies as moderators between instructional design and cognitive load. First, we describe pivotal assumptions of CLT and conceptual shortcomings related to these assumptions. Second, we review evidence from our own hypertext-based research that gives reasons for integrating configurations
The Use of Multiple Student Modeling to Parameterize Group Learning
Recent criticism of ITS research for neglecting social aspects of learning is constructively answered by a practical attempt to extrapolate student modeling and intelligent learning support to group situations. The central focus is on using individually assessed student models to anticipate and parameterize group learning situations. This requires the integration of knowledge from individual models. Aspects of system architecture and dialogue design are discussedbased on an example of a replicat
Computer Supported Interaction Analysis of Group Problem Solving
Collaboration is widely regarded as beneficial for learning. Collaboration is the mutual engagement of participants in a coordinated effort to solve a problem together. It has been conclusively argued that a focus on the process of collaboration is necessary in order to understand the value of working together with peers for learning. In accordance with the approach of open distributed learning environments (ODLEs), we have developed a framework system for computer-supported cooperative learning
CSCL Scripts: Modelling Features and Potential Use
The design of collaboration scripts is a new focus of research within the CSCL community. In order to support the design, communication, analysis, simulation and even execution of collaboration scripts, a general specification language to describe collaboration scripts is needed. In this paper, we analyse the suitability and limitations of IMS LD for modelling collaborative learning processes. Based on the analysis, we propose a CSCL scripting language. This paper presents the conceptual framewo
Measuring knowledge convergence: Achievement similarity and shared knowledge in computer-supported c
Learning in small groups may result in convergent knowledge outcomes or foster possible prior differences between learners. Few studies, however, measure convergence or divergence of knowledge as an outcome of small group learning. This contribution analyzes knowledge convergence/divergence as an outcome of learning in small groups with the concepts of achievement similarity and shared knowledge rooted in two different theoretical frameworks. Achievement similarity means that learners acquired s
Analyzing Sequential Data in Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning
Representations and changes between them play a major role in cognitive development (e.g., Vosniadou, & Brewer, 1992) and education (e.g., Hewson, Beeth, & Thorley, 1998). By definition, change of representations is also indispensable for collaborative work since a common understanding or shared knowledge can only be achieved by a partial convergence of the knowledge structures of the collaborating subjects. This articles presents and discusses knowledge tracking (KT), viz., an approach to analy
Bridging the Contextual Distance: The e-CASE Learning Environment for Supporting StudentsÂ’ Context
Supporting studentsÂ’ awareness of the complex way that contextual issues affect knowledge application in authentic situations is a critical instructional mission and can lead to improved problem solving in the workplace. In this work we present the design of e-CASE (Context Awareness Supporting Environment), which is a case based learning environment for supporting instruction in the domain of software development. In designing e-CASE we employ a model for context which further guides the use o
Innovative pedagogical and psychological perspectives of podcasts
Podcasting, being a new form of audio distribution offering the possibility to be loaded on personal mobile devices from teachersÂ’, studentÂ’, universityÂ’s websites and blogs, is discussed as an activity with potential in learning and teaching. The existing and potential varieties of podcasts represent sources for learning, converging, socializing. In this paper, podcasting is supported as an innovative approach to stimulate university studentsÂ’ reflection, specifically on epistemic quest
The use of a computerized brain atlas to support knowledge-based training in radiology
Trainers of radiologists face the particular challenges of teaching normal and abnormal appearance for a variety of imaging modalities, providing access to a large appropriately-indexed case library, and teaching a consistent approach to the reporting of cases. The computer has the potential to address these issues, to supplement conventional teaching of radiology by providing case-based tutoring and diagnostic support based on a large library of images of normal and abnormal anatomy, fully desc
Un modèle informatique de scénario fondé sur des pratiques réelles d'enseignement et une théori
La conception de scénarios pour un EIAH nécessite la mise en oeuvre de théories didactiques, de pratiques réelles, de modèles et de théories informatiques afin de prendre en compte les contraintes didactiques nécessaire à la modélisation de scénarios d'apprentissage. La modélisation de scénario devient ainsi une problématique pluridisciplinaire. La contribution principale de cet article est de proposer un modèle informatique de scénarios prenant effectivement en compte des contrai
Towards a classification of Narrative Learning Environments
In this paper, we highlight why narrative can support learning, drawing from the literature. Then we describe what are NLEs, mentioning a few examples. We also discuss NLEsÂ’ characterizing aspects - user role, technological means and educational approach - stressing their importance in determining the learning afforded by an environment. We conclude by pointing out what issues need to be tackled to advance the field.,Research report
Training strategies and knowledge acquisition: Using the same reflective tools for different purpose
The Emma educational system embodies a Knowledge Based System (KBS) that models a problem-solving method defined at an abstract level. In order to allow different explicit problem-solvings, the KBS is based on a Task-Method modelisation. The objectives of this paper are (1) to explain how we take advantage of the flexibility provided by the modelisation by using analysis-modules that can study what the influence of the student's propositions on the rest of the solving is; (2) to highlight that e
Learning from Explanations: Extending One's Own Knowledge During Collaborative Problem Solving by At
On the basis of an experimental study, we propose a cognitive simulation model of collaborative problem solving and learning. In the experimental study, we investigated how qualitative and quantitative problem representations in classical mechanics are acquired and successively interrelated during collaborative problem solving. Two students, who were taught different aspects of classical mechanics, collaborated on problems which were beyond the competence of each of them individually. Students s
The Competence of Learning Companion Agents
One recent approach in developing computer-based learning environments advocates the idea of creating a social context inside the computer. It is claimed that when the learner is engaged into a meaningful dialogue with the software actors his/her learning will benefit. In this paper we concentrate on the collaboration with artificial social actors as peer learners. How äableä should the learning companion agent be in order to maintain the motivation of the human learner to collaborate? It has
Dialogue in context, towards a referential approach in collective learning
In this article, we present research in the making of a collective work environment within the framework of a distance education course. We base our theoretical and methodological standpoints on examples of dialogical discourses recorded within the framework of this CSCL system called Symba. In fact, the results of previous research lead us to rethink our vision of the study of collaborative moments between participants in a computer-supported human learning environment that proposes several com
Enhancing the Adaptivity of an Existing Website with an Epiphyte Recommender System
In this paper we propose an approach to enhance the adaptivity of an existing Website by plugging on top of it (“epiphyte approach”) a recommender system that displays additional
tips and functionalities in a separate window. The recommender system analyzes the way the user browses through the Website according to predefined prototypical ways of using the Website (“models of use”) and then proposes information or functionalities that appear useful according to this model of use. Different mo
Reflections on Success: A retrospective of the mLearn conference series 2002-2005
mLearn is now in its fifth year. Although mobile learning has a much longer history, the
inauguration of a conference for learning in the mobile age marked an important point in its
development. This paper takes a retrospective look at the mLearn conferences from 2002
through to 2005; reflecting on our progress in order to facilitate the transition of mobile learning from a novel research concept into a viable means of providing meaningful learning
opportunities “across generations and cultures
Balancing situativity and formality: the importance of relating a formal language to interactive gra
A situated cognition theory is presented in which situated learning is viewed from a Vygotskian perspective: the developmental situativity theory. It is assumed that learning is basically a non-symbolic inductive process that is greatly enhanced by formal systems which act as tools. Instruction should provide students with an environment containing elements to allow for situated activity as well as with appropriate formal tools. Tarski's World, which is an instructional Interactive Graphical Rep
Cognitive processes in solving variants of computer-based problems used in logic teaching
The effect of two instructional variables, visualisation and manipulation of objects, in learning to use the logical connective, conditional, was investigated. Instructions for 66 first-year social science students were varied in the computer-based learning environment Tarski's World, designed for teaching first-order logic (Barwise & Etchemendy, 1992. The language of first-order logic: including the Microsoft Windows program Tarski's World 4.0 for use with IBM-compatible computers. Stanford, CA
Use of Heuristics to Facilitate Scientific Discovery Learning in a Simulation Learning Environment i
This article describes a study into the role of heuristic support in facilitating discovery learning through simulation-based learning. The study compares the use of two such learning environments in the physics domain of collisions. In one learning environment (implicit heuristics) heuristics are only used to provide the learner with guidance derived from heuristics, without presenting the heuristics themselves; in the other (explicit heuristics) the heuristics themselves are also made explicit
