Intelligent Tutoring in Virtual Environment Simulations

Virtual environment simulations can be effective training tools. Students, immersed in a computer simulation of a work environment, interact with the simulation as they would with the actual work environment. However, virtual environment technology by itself does not necessarily lead to efficient learning, because learners may fail to realize when their actions in the environment are inappropriate or suboptimal. Also, if the learners cannot determine how to interact with the simulation to achieve a desired goal, they may be reduced to trial and error. Intelligent tutoring can improve the effectiveness of virtual environments by providing feedback and guidance to the students when they are not able to interact effectively with the simulation. To provide such tutoring, we are developing a pedagogical agent that can inhabit the virtual environment along with students. The agent can demonstrate skills to students, monitor their activities and provide assistance when needed, and explain why..