A Multi-Agent Architecture to Support Synchronous Collaborative Learning in an International Environment

摘要

A highly synchronous collaborative learning environment was developed as part of the OTIS (Occupational Therapy Internet School) environment. This used conventional Internet technology and while scalable over its intended use, would become increasingly inflexible as numbers of courses and students increase. This paper introduces an agent-based architecture to produce a highly adaptable learning environment that allows the ready integration of existing materials. Individual student agents are located locally and communicate with each other. The local agent adapts to the student's activities over time. The use of this architecture is illustrated with 'guardian agents' that monitor and advise students undertaking group project work