Building Conceptual Knowledge for Managing Learning Paths in e-Learning

Abstract

This study develops a framework of conceptual model to manage learning paths in e-learning systems. Since learning objects are rapidly accumulated in e-learning course repositories, managing the relevant relations among learning objects are costly and error-prone. Moreover, conventional learning path management based on databases or XML metadata does not offer a sufficient conceptual model to represent semantics. This study utilizes ontology-based techniques to strengthen learning path management in a knowledgeable manner. Through establishing a conceptual model of learning paths, semantic modeling provides richer data structuring capabilities for organizing learning objects. Empirical findings are presented, which show technologies to enhance completeness of semantic representation and reduce the complexity of the path management efforts. A walkthrough example is given to present ontology building, knowledge inference and the planning of learning paths.