Improving the usability and effectiveness of online learning: How can avatars help?

Hua Wang*, Mark Chignell, Mitsuru Ishizuka

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

7 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper describes Empathic Tutoring System (ETS) which uses character agents for online learning. Eye movement tracking and other physiological measures are used to personalize character agent behaviors (affective and instruction) in an e-learning environment. A prototype system reacts to learner's eye information in real-time, recording eye gaze and pupil dilation data (plus heart rate and skin conductance) during learning. Based on these measures, character agents inferred the attentional and motivational status of the learner and responded accordingly with affective and instructional behaviors. Character agents engage and direct the learner's attention while providing both generalized system help and personalized advice about the learning content. Feedbacks from preliminary usability studies may suggest that e-learning character agents reacting to eye gaze and physiological measures may heighten learner concentration and lead to more effective learning.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society
Pages769-773
Number of pages5
Publication statusPublished - 2005
Externally publishedYes
Event49th Annual Meeting of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, HFES 2005 - Orlando, FL
Duration: 2005 Sept 262005 Sept 30

Other

Other49th Annual Meeting of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, HFES 2005
CityOrlando, FL
Period05/9/2605/9/30

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

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