Designing and evaluating affective open-learner modeling tutors

ABSTRACT

Research in educational technology is interested in the creation of learning environments providing an optimized learning experience for its users. Researchers have been seeking design methods and techniques that help create applications capturing the user's attention without distracting him/her from the task at hand. However, there are few ergonomics guidelines, design or evaluation principles/heuristics currently available concerning the learner modeling component of educational software designed for children. The research aims to investigate the impact of embedded interactive user models and emotive interface personas in educational software for primary school children. The contribution of the work will provide an understanding of the design and evaluation techniques that can be used to create attractive learner models, easily accessible and understandable by children, through the use of affective components.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.m Miscellaneous

Keywords:
affective computing, cognitive modeling, educational software, embodied pedagogical agents, open-learner modeling, participatory-design for children