Example explanation in learning environments

Abstract

This paper describes the design and use of an example explanation module embedded in an ITS that teaches the programming language LISP to novices. When examples are provided to support a learning process it is likely that students find it difficult to understand or to interpret them. By explaining examples these problems are reduced and give the students better insights into the problem solving domain as the explanation also serves as a positive instance to self-explanations. Problems, possible solutions, and advantages of providing examples with explanations are described to point out the importance of providing examples added with explanations in an intelligent learning environment.