An E-learning system based on a multi-agent (MAS) architecture combined with the Dynamic Content Manager (DCM) model of E-learning, is presented. We discuss the benefits of using such a multi-agent architecture. Finally, the MAS architecture is compared with a pure service-oriented architecture (SOA). This MAS architecture may also be used within…

Requiring savvy, online courses can present a perceived barrier to adult learners for a variety of reasons, but ease of access due to inadequate navigability should not be one of those barriers. Re-tooling online courses to standards of Quality Matters (QM) can lessen that barrier to access, making adult learners more participatory. Internal…

The research question in this paper is how a Field Learning Video Blog (FLvlog) has to be designed in order to optimize learning processes taking into account changed everyday communication habits of students. The system is designed to meet pedagogical as well as functional requirements for learning in fieldwork settings. The main difference to…

Faced with rising demand for information about early childhood programs, states need to find tools and strategies to monitor the progress of and to identify high-quality early childhood programs. In response, REL Mid-Atlantic convened a regional workgroup for state personnel who work with the systems containing early childhood data. The workgroup…

This paper describes the evolution and development of an intelligent information system, i.e., a knowledge base for steel structures being undertaken as part of the Technical Information Center for Steel Structures at Lehigh University's Center of Advanced Technology for Large Structural Systems (ATLSS). The initial development of the Technical…

Discusses the theoretical frameworks and design considerations for an experimental electronic library system named Cybermagazine and considers the potential of multimedia approaches to information retrieval and delivery. Issues considered include current awareness services, user interface, database management, cataloging, and document delivery.…

XML, Extensible Markup Language, is important as a way to represent and encapsulate the structure of underlying data in a portable way that supports data exchange regardless of the physical storage of the data. This paper (and session) introduces some useful and practical aspects of XML technology for sharing information in a educational setting…

The Evaluation and Assessment Laboratory at the University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa) has contracted with the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE) to develop a microcomputer-based data management system for use in applying evaluation standards to schools and school systems. The Comprehensive Evaluation System (CES) was implemented statewide and has…

This paper describes the techniques for implementing a full-screen, custom SPIRES interface for a public-use library database. The database-independent protocol that controls the system is described in detail. Source code for an entire working application using this interface is included. The protocol, with less than 170 lines of procedural code,…

TAIGA (Twente Advanced Interactive Graphic Authoring system) is a system which can be used to develop instructional software. It is written in MS-PASCAL, and runs on computers that support MS-DOS. Designed to support the production of structured software, TAIGA has a hierarchical structure of three layers, each with a specific function, and each…

This paper describes a methodology for use in teaching an introductory Database Management System (DBMS) course. Students master basic database concepts through the use of a multiple component project implemented in both relational and associative data models. The associative data model is a new approach for designing multi-user, Web-enabled…

A high school teacher and a librarian are collecting and analyzing material in every medium for teaching John Steinbeck's novel, "The Grapes of Wrath," including the political and social history of the 1930s--altogether some 33 topic headings touched upon in the novel and in about 54 related works: books, films, television documentaries,…

The work presents a new method to send educational messages in e-learning systems. The communication tools are one of the main characteristics of the virtual formative actions, in addition of the contents and the evaluation. The system must help to motivate the students, mainly those who do not leave the formative action and continue it until the…

In January 1994, Arizona's Maricopa Community College District issued a request for proposals to develop new administrative software applications to solve problems related to high maintenance costs for existing systems and difficulties in updating software. The result was the Apollo Project, in which the District contracted with Oracle Corporation…

The Distance Education Center (DEC) of the University of Southern Queensland (Australia) has developed a unique materials database system which is used to monitor pre-production, design and development, production and post-production planning, scheduling, and distribution of all types of materials including courses offered only on the Internet. In…