A Comparison of Model-Tracing and Constraint-Based Intelligent Tutoring Paradigms

Two approaches to building intelligent tutoring systems are the well-established model-tracing paradigm and the relatively newer constraint-based paradigm. Proponents of the constraint-based paradigm claim that it affords performance at levels comparable to that of model-tracing tutors, but with significantly less development effort. We have built both a model-tracing and constraint-based tutor for the same problem domain (statistical hypothesis testing) and report on our findings with the goals of evaluating proponents' claims, more generally contrasting and comparing the two approaches, and providing guidance for others interested in building intelligent tutoring systems. Principally we conclude that two characteristics of the problem domain are key in distinguishing the appropriateness of the approaches for a given problem domain. First, the constraint-based paradigm is feasible only for domains in which the solution itself is rich in information. There is no such restriction f...

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2005
• Where: AIEDU
• Authors: Viswanathan Kodaganallur, Rob R. Weitz, David Rosenthal
• Keywords: AIEDU 2005, Constraint-based Paradigm, Intelligent Tutoring, Tutor