Title: The effects of learning goals and modelling on virtual collaboration: a case study on the Merlin agent-assisted collaborative concept map

Authors: Fang-Fang Chua, Chien-Sing Lee

Addresses: Faculty of Information Technology, Multimedia University (MMU), 63100 Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia. ' Faculty of Information Technology, Multimedia University (MMU), 63100 Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract: The novice learner often faces difficulties in transforming knowledge space into meaningful concept space. This is because the reorganisation and review of mental models happen in isolation with little avenue for feedback or help for reflection. In Merlin agent-assisted collaborative concept map version 2.3, cognitive apprenticeship is incorporated with a collaborative concept map within a common knowledge space. In Merlin version 3.0, we enhance the task planning/learning goals and modelling aspects and investigate their effects on virtual collaboration. Inaba et al.|s (2000) Learning Goal Ontology is adapted to investigate whether goals are achieved after the users build the brand for a movie company using Merlin and the branding model we created in the knowledge base. Qualitative findings indicate that setting personal and common goals, as well as modelling, can help create positive learning experiences.

Keywords: modelling; individual learning goals; common learning goals; collaborative concept mapping; web based communities; virtual collaboration.

DOI: 10.1504/IJWBC.2007.014083

International Journal of Web Based Communities, 2007 Vol.3 No.2, pp.229 - 248

Published online: 18 Jun 2007 *

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