Exploring the Design of Computer Supports for Reciprocal Tutoring

Abstract

This paper explores the design of a set of system prototypes for supporting a protocol of cooperative learning activity called reciprocal tutoring. During reciprocal tutoring, two or more agents in centralized or distributed environments interact as they take turns at playing the roles of a tutor and a tutee in solving Lisp recursive problems. These agents are either real students or virtual learning companions simulated by the computer. Furthermore, in the design of a virtual tutee, which is one of the roles assumed by the virtual learning companion, we found that the student model plays a critical role in adaptive interaction with the student, thus broadening the applicability of the student model in one-on-one tutoring settings. Preliminary experimental trials of these systems have been conducted.