agent-based systems for human learning
(abshl) workshop

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Elizabeth Sklar
 

 

The aim of the Agent-Based Systems for Human Learning (ABSHL) workshop is to bring together researchers who, as the title suggests, are working on agent-based systems to support a wide variety of human learning applications. These are typically split into two areas:

  • training, which generally refers to adult learning of job-related skills, frequently but not exclusively in military settings; and
  • education, which generally refers to child and (young) adult learning in academic settings, including primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities.
While the terms education and training may indicate diverse areas within the field of human learning, the overlapping interest in agent-based systems that somehow aid human learners of any age and within any setting unites the areas within the context of this workshop.

Systems that support education and training in various ways are a growing topic of research, approached from many different angles and involving an unusual blend of researchers. The purpose of the ABSHL workshop is to provide a forum for researchers in both the groups to come together and present current work-in-progress. While many workshops have focused on aspects of training or learning in agents, this workshop is focused on how a human learner can be assisted through an agent-based learning environment.

The first ABSHL workshop, held at AAMAS-2005, highlighted the tremendous need for a forum in which to discuss such systems. Although the specific application areas of the participants may be varied, the major issues faced are shared. These issues include:

  • How does * for human learning using agent-based systems differ from * for other types of interactive agent-based applications?
    (where * = system architecture, interface design, data collection, data management, testing, communication, etc.)
  • How do emotions (e.g., happiness) correlate with human learning and/or ability/tendency to learn?
  • Are there gender differences in learning that need to be recognized and planned for, particularly in the areas of interface design and learning assessment?
  • How does one cross-over from learning/education/training research to scientific communities?
  • What model(s) of human learning are valid/relevant?
  • How do ethics and human subjects issues play a role in this type of research?
  • Why and how are these topics of interest to the AAMAS community?