Introduction: What Are Intelligent Tutoring Systems, and Why This Book?

This introductory chapter opens the doors to the field of Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS) and ITS research. A historical perspective provides insight into the genesis of the field, which is a prerequisite for understanding the recent advances presented in the book. Challenges specific to the field are introduced, and the community and its dynamics are described. The chapter ends with a presentation of the book’s contents and organization.