Learning needs for special needs learners: A graph based adaptive approach for content sequencing

This paper considers a graph based adaptive approach for sequencing of learning objects for Special Needs Learners (SNL) in customized manner. The proposed algorithm traverses the nodes of the graph containing learning content topics in effective manner. This approach ensures not only customized learning for special needs learners, but also imparts some level of intelligence in the process of learning. The SNL goes through the necessary nodes on the graph form the first node of the learning module (priority based) to the last learning module considering the priorities and needs of the learners and obtains the optimal solution for the SNL. The algorithm is designed in such a way that the learning process and outcome are inline with the predefined curriculum. The curriculum is a tailor made collaboration of various independent and reusable learning modules as per the personalized requirements and the learning ability of the SNL. The paper also proposes the parameters that would contribute for the personalized learning of the SNL.

[1]  Gordon I. McCalla,et al.  The Search for Adaptability, Flexibility, and Individualization: Approaches to Curriculum in Intelligent Tutoring Systems , 1992 .

[2]  Manju Banerjee,et al.  The Online and Blended Learning Experience: Differences for Students with and without Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. , 2012 .

[3]  Jonita Roman,et al.  Improving content sequencing of packaged content through feedback and priority , 2016, 2016 International Conference on ICT in Business Industry & Government (ICTBIG).

[4]  Honguk Woo,et al.  The identification, implementation, and evaluation of critical user interface design features of computer-assisted instruction programs in mathematics for students with learning disabilities , 2010, Comput. Educ..

[5]  David R. Parker,et al.  Leveling the Digital Playing Field , 2007 .

[7]  M. Sahoo,et al.  Psychological Co-morbidity in Children with Specific Learning Disorders , 2015, Journal of family medicine and primary care.

[8]  Gi-Zen Liu,et al.  Identifying emerging trends for implementing learning technology in special education: a state-of-the-art review of selected articles published in 2008-2012. , 2013, Research in developmental disabilities.

[9]  Asoke Nath,et al.  Massive open online courses (MOOCs) in education — A case study in Indian context and vision to ubiquitous learning , 2014, 2014 IEEE International Conference on MOOC, Innovation and Technology in Education (MITE).

[10]  Peter Brusilovsky,et al.  A Framework for Intelligent Knowledge Sequencing and Task Sequencing , 1992, Intelligent Tutoring Systems.

[11]  Roger Azevedo,et al.  Adaptive Human Scaffolding Facilitates Adolescents’ Self-regulated Learning with Hypermedia , 2005 .

[12]  S. Sadat,et al.  An Evaluation Of Constructivism For Learners With ADHD: Development Of A Constructivist Pedagogy For Special Needs , 2011 .

[13]  Judith A. Wiener Easing the Learning Curve: The Creation of Digital Learning Objects for Use in Special Collections Student Training , 2010 .

[14]  Robin Cohen,et al.  A Model for Content Sequencing in Intelligent Tutoring Systems Based on the Ecological Approach and Its Validation Through Simulated Students , 2010, FLAIRS.

[15]  T. Spencer,et al.  Understanding Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder from Childhood to Adulthood , 2010, Postgraduate medicine.

[16]  Neil Selwyn,et al.  Education and Technology: Key Issues and Debates , 2011 .

[17]  Miguel J. Hornos,et al.  Sc@ut: developing adapted communicators for special education , 2009 .

[18]  L. Wolf,et al.  College Students with ADHD and Other Hidden Disabilities , 2001, Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences.

[19]  Mary Jorgensen,et al.  Access and perceived ICT usability among students with disabilities attending higher education institutions , 2017, Education and Information Technologies.

[20]  Hema Banati,et al.  Adaptive Content Sequencing for e-Learning Courses Using Ant Colony Optimization , 2011, SocProS.

[21]  Charalampos Karagiannidis,et al.  Cognitive support embedded in self-regulated e-learning systems for students with special learning needs , 2014, Education and Information Technologies.

[22]  Yu-Liang Chi,et al.  Ontology-based curriculum content sequencing system with semantic rules , 2009, Expert Syst. Appl..

[23]  David McLean,et al.  An adaptation algorithm for an intelligent natural language tutoring system , 2014, Comput. Educ..