Evaluating the Runtime Adaptation of EML-Described Learning Processes

Abstract

This work aims to provide the instructors of learning process specified by means of an educational language (EML) with a mechanism to modify the process definition during runtime. The paper presents the results of some experiments carried out as part of the evaluation of the envisaged solution. The core of the proposed solution is a model which allows the instructor to describe variations of the original learning process design, as well as to evaluate and monitor the process progress. The model is complemented with a method which organizes the performance of the instructor actions supported by the model, and a mechanism to allow its application on running instances of the process. To state the suitability of the proposed method and the expressivity of the adaptation model, the solution has been applied on three different scenarios. Three real learning processes supported on Moodle platforms have been replicated on Unit of Learning (UoL) versions described by means of IMS Learning Design(IMS LD). The adaptations and monitorizations performed by the instructors in the Moodle versions have been described using the adaptation model elements and applied to UoLs following the proposed method guidelines.