Research On Web-based Adaptive Learning Support System

Most of the current distance learning systems, which are implemented by combining web-based learning material and some corresponding tools, are simple applications of Internet technology in distance education. These systems, which are short of individual learning support to the student, are hard to offer such functions as real time guidance, monitoring, adjusting, etc.Adaptive learning environment is an important subject in distance education. Since 1996, research papers in this area, especially on adaptive hypermedia (AH), have increased fastly. Adaptive learning system is application of adaptive hypermedia in education, which is the cross of intelligent tutoring system (ITS) and hypermedia. Not only they ensure the freedom to the user in his learning procedure, but also provide guidance and help which are adaptive to user's traits.Rooted in the need of distance instruction and by referencing fruits of adaptive hypermedia, ITS, and network instruction system, the author presented an instruction domain model, user model and modeling method, system structure of adaptive learning system in the thesis. In addition, some algorithms on curial components are discussed and a prototype named A-Tutor (Adaptive Tutor) has been developed.The content in the thesis is as following:In Chapter 1, the origin of problem in the paper was introduced and the research framework was defined.In Chapter 2, the instruction theory was surveyed. Supporting factors in learning process were put forward, and their traits were compared in different instruction systems.In Chapter 3, the formal modeling of learning system was investigated.In Chapter 4, a few types of instruction software were reviewed. Especially, the author focused on state of art of adaptive education hypermedia and instruction supporting platform, and then compared the current adaptive learning system with A-Tutor system.In Chapter 5, overall structure model of A-Tutor was analyzed.In Chapter 6, ideas and methods of domain model were introduced firstly, and then layered model and information model in A-Tutor were presented in detail.In Chapter 7, user model and modeling method were introduced firstly, and then user mode! in A-Tutor was focused on.In Chapter 8, crucial algorisms of adaptive engine in A-Tutor were investigated.In Chapter 9, development technology was introduced firstly, and then the procedure of authoring and learning with A-Tutor were presented.In Chapter 10, the author made a conclusion on this thesis and then indicated some: shortcomings and the next research goal.The creative and contributions in this thesis can be summed up as following:(1) make an overall review on fruits of adaptive hypermedia and adaptive learning system., and put forward a new system model of adaptive learning system.(2) design an instruction knowledge layered model and information model, and use certainty factor and fuzzy technology to represent uncertain knowledge.(3 ) bring forward a multi-tier user model and methods of user modeling.(4) use learning unit as core, offering tree-like directory navigation and task-based learningstyle. In local appearance, the system satisfied what Merrill said basic infraction principles , which combining problem, activation, demonstration, application and integration. And in global appearance, the system use link annotation as guidance. Besides, dynamic learning area was used as navigation in task-based learning style.(5) based on the above technology, the author have developed an adaptive learning prototype system, and put forward a process and method on how to produce an adaptive on-line course, which is the base of the experiment research.