Framework for Distributed Special Needs Education Using an Agent-Based Learning Environment

Abstract

r more teachers and several learners. The environment can be distributed over a local-area network. The framework is designed to support the learning and teaching processes of each individual learner and teacher. One of the goals is to divide the responsibility of the teaching between a computer and a human teacher. There are customized agents for each learning environment participant. The agents belong to various classes according to environment users. Every learner has his/her own learner agent, teacher has his/her teacher agent etc. The agents communicate with other agents and modify the teaching and learning processes. Learner agents can, for example, provide exercises and additional material to learners when needed. Other agents, e.g. neuropsychologist agent and therapist agent, can gather information for corresponding authorities. The environment is planned to be open so that various topics can be taught and learne