Electronic portfolios as a means for initializing learner models for adaptive tutorials

Abstract

Using electronic portfolios (e-portfolios) to assist learning is an important component of future educational models. We show how to use the information contained in e-portfolios to initialize learner models for adaptive tutorials. E-portfolios become sources of evidence for claims about prior conceptual knowledge or skills. An experiment is designed for testing how accurate a model can be built and how beneficial this approach can be for reflective and personalized learning. Monitoring this process can also help tutorial developers and experts identify how initial learner models may automatically arise from e-portfolios. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2006.