The Invention Coach: Integrating Data and Theory in the Design of an Exploratory Learning Environment

This design case describes the development of the Invention Coach, an intelligent exploratory learning environment (ELE) for the constructivist activity of Invention. The Invention Coach scaffolds students as they invent mathematical formulas to describe contrasting cases. In this paper, we detail our process and rationale for three key design decisions made with the goal of providing optimal guidance for Invention: (a) engaging in systematic analysis of teachers guiding students as a starting point for development; (b) developing a style of guidance that problematizes students’ work through constraints, contrasts, and prompts for explanation; and (c) structuring the space through a nonlinear, modular set of activities focused on problem subgoals. We revisit the age-old assistance dilemma, discussing the unique difficulties of designing guidance and support in a computer environment for exploratory learning. Throughout, we discuss the tensions between providing adequate guidance and encouraging student exploration. We end by considering the trade-offs and unforeseen challenges that have come out of our design.

The Personal Assistance Dilemma for People with Disabilities Living in Rural Areas

Persons with physical disabilities who live in rural areas and require personal assistance in order to function face almost overwhelming barriers to pursuing independent lives. From the time of onset of disability, families assume the major responsibility for meeting their personal assistance needs. Often individuals with disabilities are poorly prepared to manage this need for themselves, lacking information and experiencing severe limitations in financial and human resources. The author presents information on personal assistance and methods used by people with physical disabilities to meet their need for personal assistance, and discusses the special assistance-related problems faced by people living in rural areas.