A Learner Model for Adaptable e-Learning

Abstract

The advancement in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has provided new opportunities for teaching and learning in the form of e-learning. However, developing specialized contents, accommodating profiles of learners, e-learning pedagogy and available ICT infrastructure are the real challenges that need to be properly addressed for any successful e-learning system. The adaptability in an e-learning system can be used to address many of these challenges and issues. This paper proposes a learner model for adaptable e-learning model. The proposed model is based on the findings of a survey conducted to investigate the profiles and preferences of the local learners. The conceptual framework highlights the layered model of adaptable e-learning with the knowledge level of learners as the foundation layer. The foundation layer is derived from four components of adaptable e- learning, i.e., domain, program pedagogy, student model and technology interface. The learner algorithm retrieves the adaptable contents from the domain model by analyzing the learner information stored in the student model. The e- assessment is part of the program pedagogy and the assessment results are used to control the presentation and navigation of adaptable contents during the learning process. The model has been tested on a Computer Science course offered by Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, Pakistan at Post Graduate Diploma level. The results show that the proposed adaptable e- learning model has significantly improved the knowledge level of the learners.