Component-Based Construction of a Science Learning Space
In IJAIED
10 (3): "'Best of ITS 98' Special Issue "
Publication information
Abstract
We present a vision for learning environments, called Science Learning Spaces, that
are rich in engaging content and activities, provide constructive experiences in scientific
process skills, and are as instructionally effective as a personal tutor. A Science Learning Space
combines three independent software systems: 1) simulations in which experiments are run and
data is collected, 2) representation construction tools in which data is analyzed and conceptual
models are expressed and evaluated, and 3) tutor agents that provide just-in-time assistance for
acquiring higher order skills like experimental strategy, representational tool choice,
conjecturing, and argument. Achieving the Science Learning Space vision will require
collaborative efforts facilitated by a component-based software architecture. We have created a
feasibility demonstration that serves as an example and a call for further work toward achieving
this vision. In our demonstration, we combined 1) the Active Illustrations simulation
environment, 2) the Belvedere evidence mapping environment, and 3) a model-tracing
Experimentation Tutor Agent. We illustrate student interaction in this Science Learning Space
and discuss the requirements, advantages, and challenges in creating one.
