Hybrid Multi-Agents and Case Based Reasoning for Aiding Green Practice in Institutions of Higher Learning

Abstract

Sustainability is a concern that has been raised in many domains especially in institutions of higher learning such as universities. Hence, universities are implementing Green practices to promote sustainability. Similarly Green practice implementation in universities for attaining sustainability has been the priority for most universities across the world, mainly in ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of Information Technology (IT) related service. Over the years, a few approaches have been developed to facilitate Green practice in institutions of higher learning, however these approaches are not autonomous and do not provide adequate information on Green implementation initiatives. Moreover, institutions of higher learning utilize manual checklist assessment questionnaire to evaluate their current Green practice. Therefore, this study proposes a system model that integrates hybrid multi-agent and Case Based Reasoning (CBR). The CBR technique facilitates Green implementation by providing information on how institution of higher learning can adopt Green practices initiative, whereas software agents autonomously assess the current Green practice initiative implemented in institutions of higher learning. Findings from this paper show how the hybrid multi-agent and CBR aid universities implement Green practice for sustainability attainment in institutions of higher learning.