Learning Problem-Solving Skills in Algebra

Abstract

In this article we describe aspects of our intelligent tutor for basic algebra. A main goal of the project is to develop a computer tutoring system whose skills and knowledge approximate those of a high-quality human tutor. We are particularly interested in exploring novel learning opportunities that can be made available to students for the first time by exploiting the reactive capabilities of such intelligent tutors. In this context, we focus here on the role of an algebra expert system embedded in the tutor. We discuss how it can be used to help students learn several nontraditional types of skill and knowledge in the context of algebra, including goal-directed reasoning skills, and debugging techniques.