User modelling in the interactive anatomy tutoring system ANATOM-TUTOR

Abstract

This article is a comparative description of the user modelling component of ANATOM-TUTOR, an intelligent anatomy tutoring system for use at university level. We introduce ITSs in general, discussing some of the psychological and pedagogical issues involved in using computers in education, and ANATOM-TUTOR in particular, and locate ANATOM-TUTOR's user modelling component in the field of existing user models. Details of the user model's construction and maintenance, the knowledge representation techniques used in it, and its relation to the domain knowledge base are then discussed. Two applications of ANATOM-TUTOR's user model are described: (1) tailoring hypertext to the level of knowledge of the individual user; and (2) generating explanations and questions in a simulated examination situation, also taking into consideration the individual user's level of knowledge.