Agents help students in ProgrammingLand

Abstract

ProgrammingLand is an online system for delivering content to introductory computer science courses as a substitute for a conventional textbook. Because the system has a large number of exhibits, sometimes students were not finding the material needed. The system was recently enhanced with several agents to direct students to pertinent locations. This paper discusses the capabilities and techniques of these agents.Preliminary data from the use of ProgrammingLand in two different introductory programming classes is discussed. This data suggests that the agents are successful in aiding students, especially those who are struggling.

ProgrammingLand: A visualization enhanced hypertextbook

“…The results of this study were also positive. Agent effectiveness was considered in [8]. This study indicated the not surprising fact that stronger students were moved by agents less than weaker students.…”