An open learning model for the distance learning architecture

Web based learning enables many more students to have access to a distance-learning environment, providing students and teachers with unprecedented flexibility and convenience. At the same time, Web based learning frameworks also pose many problems. For example, a teacher used to old-style teaching methods may find it difficult to put course material online, and a student may suffer from information overload. In this paper, we present an open framework that solves these two problems. In particular, our framework allows students to interact with an automatic question answering system to get their answers, and allows teachers to analysis student learning patterns and organize Web-based contents efficiently. The framework is both intelligent through data mining and case-based reasoning features, and user-friendly through personalized services to both teachers and students.

1. Introduction

As distance learning becomes one of the hotspots in network research and application, many web-based education systems have been established all around the world, such as the Virtual-U [1] and Web-CT [2]. To cover all the phases of the learning process, these systems are usually comprised of such fundamental components as synchronous and asynchronous teaching system, course-content delivery tools, polling and quiz modules, virtual workspaces for sharing resources, white boards, grade reporting systems, assignment submission components, etc. These research and products enable large groups of dispersed individuals to interact, collaborate and study over the Internet.