Using cloud computing and a multi-agents system to improve collaborative e-learning in LMS

Abstract

Today, e-learning featured by collaboration has become more and more important. The most traditional tool of e-learning is the LMS (Learning Management System), which is adopted by many institutions. However, the LMS is not always able to satisfy the needs for interaction and collaboration of actors involved by providing tutors information about the level of collaboration and productivity each student and group. On the other hand, LMS is facing challenges of optimizing large-scale resource management, according to the huge growth of services. The primary aim of this work is to exploit the potential of Multi-Agents Systems (MAS) and cloud computing to improve students collaboration in LMS. Thus, in order to satisfy the needs of interaction and collaboration of students and educators, we propose in this work an interactive and collaborative e-learning platform which combines the advantages of LMS, MAS and cloud computing. The proposed platform is implemented as a cloud-based LMS integrating a MAS permitting to collect, store and manage data and information about students' activities. The platform allows to track the progress of students and their level of collaboration and productivity to provide tutors with information about the realization of students' activities. As a result, tutors exploit these data to promote collaborative learning, avoid the students' isolation and motivate them to use collaborative work tools.