Extending moodle grouping functionality using artificial intelligent techniques

Learning Management Systems such as Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (Moodle) only supports random group assignment or instructor based assignment method. However, with the understanding that random assignment method only increases the likelihood of heterogeneity in the group, while instructor based method involves the instructors and it is not dynamic, there is need to develop a group formation mechanism which can guarantee heterogeneity based on learner's collaboration competence level, has dynamism in grouping students and has less instructor involvement. In view of this, this paper discusses how to extend Moodle grouping functionality in discussion forums using an intelligent grouping algorithm which has the capability to mine discussion forum data in Moodle and cluster students to different clusters based on learner's collaboration competence level. In addition we demonstrate how these clusters are formed and utilized to form heterogeneous groups which are automatically added in Moodle Database. An interface has also been created in Moodle to allow instructors to automatically create clusters and form groups based on these clusters.