This paper addresses a challenging problem
concerned basically with realistic optimal computer-based
educational simulations. More specifically, it searches for an
optimally designed computational tool(s), such as software
learning package(s), applied to teaching a specified curriculum in
classroom. Herein, quantitative evaluation as well as statistical
analysis of the learning environment nature have been considered
for optimal learning systems' performance. Recently, this
learning issue has gained significance due to the integration of
information technology into educational/instructional practical
operations. Accordingly, two learning parameters -that are
candidates to measure effectiveness and efficiency of such
packages- are elected to support the optimal selection of a relevant
software learning package SWLP. These parameters -after
establishing how to measure results and performance of the
learning process- are: the output learning level, which evaluates
obtained educational achievement, and time response considered
in fulfillment of a pre-assigned educational achievement/learning
level. Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) modeling is adopted for
the simulation of a realistic practical learning processes’
performance, as well as software learning packages' evaluation
and testing. Additionally, herein an Artificial Neural Network
(ANN) model is presented. Which is based on guided-error
correction learning (learning with a teacher). Therefore, it is used
as a realistic simulating tool aiming at quantitative/statistical
evaluation of the learning process under investigation.
Consequently, presented ANN model considered both students'
individual differences as well as SWLPs employed as virtual
teacher in a computer course curriculum. Two learning
parameters are considered during the running of the presented
model. Namely, learning convergence (response) time, and
secondly, the achievement (output) learning level (amplitude)
response. It is worthy to note that obtained simulation results were
well supported by the case study results that have been recently
published. |
