Abstract
This research investigated the effects of applying intelligent agent techniques to an online learning environment. The knowbots (or Knowledge Robots) created for the research were intelligent software agents that automated the repetitive tasks of human facilitators in a series of online workshops. The study specifically captured experimental results of using knowbots in multiple sessions of an ALN (Asynchronous Learning Network) online workshop, Getting Started Creating Online Courses. The study used experimental groups and comparison groups to examine the association between the use of knowbots and workshop completion rates. Also examined were the effects of knowbots on other factors such as facilitation time and learner satisfaction. The findings indicated that the use of knowbots was positively associated with higher learner completion rates in the workshops. In addition, knowbots implemented a learning-support tool that reminded learners about deadlines. The support knowbots were found to be effective autonomous motivators. In sum, the results of this research suggest that the application of agent technology to online learning holds promise for improving completion rates, learner satisfaction, and motivation.
Highlights
Asynchronous Learning Networks (ALNs) appear to work best when there is a high level of online facilitation
The research reported in this paper describes a series of experiments designed to evaluate ways by which online courses (i.e., ALN courses) can be improved by the introduction of autonomous intelligent software agents
Checking computer code, responding to simple questions, reminding learners about the need to turn in assignments and potentially even grading essays [3] are among the types of things that intelligent agents can accomplish
Summary
Asynchronous Learning Networks (ALNs) appear to work best when there is a high level of online facilitation. Learners appreciate immediate feedback and the ability to get help rapidly. This finding has been shown in several ALN venues [1], [2]. The research reported in this paper describes a series of experiments designed to evaluate ways by which online courses (i.e., ALN courses) can be improved by the introduction of autonomous intelligent software agents. Intelligent Agents (IAs), termed “knowbots” can perform the duties of online facilitators for routine tasks. Checking computer code, responding to simple questions, reminding learners about the need to turn in assignments and potentially even grading essays [3] are among the types of things that intelligent agents can accomplish
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