Exploring the Role of Personalization in Adaptive Learning Environments

From a system’s theoretical point of view, adaptive learning systems (ALS) for education and training contain in their core – in a simplified form – closed feedback control loops in which the control is determined by the measured users’ performance. Improving this performance can increase the learning outcome, especially for critical disciplines such as education or training for disaster risk management. However, for this special form of intelligent (e-learning) assistance systems, learning theories and behavioral models have to be considered, e.g., game flow theory, cognition models, or learning models. The research question is how adaptive interactive learning environments (ILE) such as serious games and computer simulations can be characterized and analyzed to determine optimal adaptation strategies. Adaptive learning environments should adapt to the context-related needs of the user in order to ensure and optimize learning success, especially for disaster management training. This contribution presents a concept for an interoperable, adaptive ILE framework which follows control theory and its models, contributing to the state of the art for adaptive games or simulations in disaster risk management.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the trajectory and contributions of the Remote Experimentation Laboratory (RExLab) over its 27 years of existence, focusing on the integration of technology in education and its relevance to teaching and learning. Theoretical Framework: RExLab was founded in 1997 with the aim of promoting digital inclusion and democratization of science education through the provision of Remote Laboratories. Over the years, the research group has added more resources to its projects, such as the integration of technologies in education, teacher training, and the creation of Open Educational Resources (OER), receiving several awards and distinctions along the way. Method: The research adopted a documentary and bibliographical approach, tracking the evolution and impact of RExLab from its inception to the present moment. Data collection was conducted through the analysis of documents and publications related to RExLab. Results and Discussion: The results highlight RExLab's contributions to the integration of technology in education, demonstrating its role in generating practical knowledge to solve specific problems and in understanding the experiences and perceptions related to technology in education. The discussion contextualizes these results in light of the theoretical framework, emphasizing the importance of RExLab for teaching and learning. Research Implications: This research reflects on how RExLab can continue to be an ally in the integration of technology in education, even in the face of future challenges. Its implications encompass both the field of education and applied research. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the importance of RExLab as a successful model in the integration of technology in education over time. Its relevance lies in the emphasis on the practical application of research and in promoting equality through education.

Students' literacy skills in Indonesia remain a critical concern in education. The lack of reading interest, particularly among elementary school students, necessitates the integration of technology as an innovative solution in learning. This study aims to explore the impact of Chromebook and Let's Read application on students' reading interest through picture stories. A qualitative approach using a case study method was employed, involving 30 students from two elementary schools as research subjects. The results indicated a positive trend in students' engagement and enthusiasm, along with significant improvements in concentration and focus during learning activities. Teacher reports confirmed that the use of Chromebook and Let's Read significantly enhanced students' motivation to read and explore picture stories. However, the study also identified challenges such as technical issues and curriculum adjustments. Despite these obstacles, the integration of technology in education demonstrated promising outcomes in increasing students' reading interest and literacy skills. This research concludes that the use of Chromebook and Let's Read application can create a more engaging and effective learning environment, fostering active student participation in reading activities. The findings emphasize the importance of leveraging technology in elementary education to cultivate sustainable reading habits and improve literacy outcomes.

EDFA: Ensemble deep CNN for assessing student's cognitive state in adaptive online learning environments

The online and blended delivery of courses through the use of technologies has attracted attention and research.The teaching and learning of English for Academic Purposes (EAP) in multilingual contexts such as in Africa has also been given prominence in research, as well as the benefits of technology in EAP programmes. The pressing need for technology - supported educational practices has been evidenced by the COVID-19 pandemic that affected most educational systems around the world. Although there is an increasing body of research on the integration of technology in education emerging from developing contexts, most proposed models still come from high-income countries.Therefore, there is a need for more critical and contextually relevant approaches to the integration of technology in education. Based on the authors’ narratives of their lived experiences as teachers of EAP in a university in East Africa, this article aims to describe and reflect on the practices related to design and delivery of online and blended courses to university students, including in a teacher education programme. It is hoped that this work will contribute to discussions on how to make online and blended teaching practices of EAP more contextually relevant and how exogenous resources can be adapted to the realities of students in multilingual developing contexts.The online and blended delivery of courses through the use of technologies has attracted attention and research. The teaching and learning of English for Academic Purposes (EAP) in multilingual contexts such as in Africa has also been given prominence in research, as well as the benefits of technology in EAP programmes. The pressing need for technology-supported educational practices has been evidenced by the COVID-19 pandemic that affected most educational systems around the world. Although there is an increasing body of research on the integration of technology in education emerging from developing contexts, most proposed models still come from high-income countries. Therefore, there is a need for more critical and contextually relevant approaches to the integration of technology in education. Based on the authors’ narratives of their lived experiences as teachers of EAP in a university in East Africa, this article aims to describe and reflect on the practices related to design and delivery of online and blended courses to university students, including in a teacher education programme. It is hoped that this work will contribute to discussions on how to make online and blended teaching practices of EAP more contextually relevant and how exogenous resources can be adapted to the realities of students in multilingual developing contexts.

This research explores students' perceptions regarding the impact of flexible working arrangements (FWA) approach on their academic performance, with a focus on the moderating role of blended learning (BL) as an educational setting. A survey was conducted with students across foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels in a Malaysian university to gather insights on how FWA and BL intersect to influence their performance. The findings indicate that FWA positively and significantly influences student performance. Additionally, the integration of BL was found to enhance the relationship between FWA and student performance. This suggests that the flexibility afforded by FWA, when combined with the benefits of BL such as increased engagement and personalised learning, can lead to improved academic outcomes from the students' perspective. The study provides practical implications for educators and institutions seeking to leverage technology and flexible arrangements to create more effective and adaptive learning environments. The theoretical contributions lie in enriching existing frameworks on student engagement, educational technology integration, and the dynamics of BL settings. Overall, this research offers valuable insights into how students perceive the combined effects of FWA and BL on their academic performance. Keywords: Student perceptions, flexible working arrangements, blended learning and teaching, students' performances, university students

Research on educational technology (EdTech) integration has extensively explored determinants; however, strategies remain underexamined. Existing models predominantly focus on identifying the determinants of technology adoption yet fail to offer systemic frameworks for sustainable EdTech integration. This study bridges that gap by investigating strategies proposed by stakeholders in a college of teacher education, culminating in a theoretical framework. The research was conducted across four Ethiopian colleges of teacher education by employing a constructivist grounded theory. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and document analysis, involving 23 participants selected through purposive and theoretical sampling. Data analysis was performed using MAXQDA (Version 2020) software. The results revealed six key strategies categorized into teacher-related, institution-related, and organization-related. A co-constructed theoretical framework illustrates the roles of various stakeholders in EdTech integration, underpinned by ecological systems theory, diffusion of innovations, and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. Credibility was ensured through a member-checking survey. The study advocates for further quantitative research to evaluate the correlation between strategies and educational technology integration outcomes, with replication across diverse contexts and stakeholders.

Identification of personal traits in adaptive learning environment: Systematic literature review

This article provides a model for preparing preservice teachers for the integration and implementation of technology in teaching and learning. The technology integration approach implemented focuses on a triad model that identifies three areas of technology infusion: communication, productivity, and research/instruction. This triad model demonstrates one approach for designing curriculum and appropriate experiences in a teacher preparation program that provides hands-on experience with technology as supported by the vision of the National Educational Technology Standards (ISTE, 2000). Descriptions are given of specific assignments, projects, and learning experiences designed to engage preservice teachers in enriching technological experiences to enhance their own learning while at the same time serving as a model for teaching.

This study aims to examine the implementation of a teaching module based on the TPACK (Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge) approach in the learning of tembang macapat at SMK Negeri 1 Kaligondang, Purbalingga. The focus of this research is to enhance students' understanding, interest, and skills through the integration of technology in learning, in line with the principles of the Merdeka Curriculum, which emphasizes the development of 21st-century skills: critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration. This research employs a qualitative descriptive approach, with research subjects including the principal, Javanese language teacher, and students of SMK Negeri 1 Kaligondang. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation, and analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model, which consists of data reduction, data display, and verification. The results of the study show a significant improvement in students' learning outcomes, with a 64.5% increase in pretest scores after the learning process. Furthermore, the implementation of the teaching module based on the TPACK approach also enhanced teachers' creativity and innovation in designing more engaging and relevant lessons, while motivating students to be more active in the learning process. Thus, the implementation of the teaching module using the TPACK approach proves to be effective in improving learning outcomes and the quality of tembang macapat instruction, as well as supporting the creation of a more adaptive and responsive learning environment in the face of technological developments and the educational demands of the 21st century.

This study investigates the long-term impact of adaptive digital learning ecosystems on students' self-regulated learning (SRL) behaviors and academic persistence. Adaptive learning systems personalize the learning experience by adjusting content and feedback to meet individual students' needs, preferences, and performance. These systems enhance engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes through real-time adjustments and continuous feedback. The research aims to explore how adaptive learning systems influence SRL and academic persistence in university courses over time. Using a longitudinal quantitative design, the study tracks SRL behaviors and academic persistence at multiple points during the semester. Results show significant improvements in SRL behaviors such as goal setting, planning, self-monitoring, and reflection among students engaged with adaptive learning environments. These students exhibited greater autonomy, improved metacognitive awareness, and higher motivation. Additionally, students in adaptive systems demonstrated greater academic persistence, as indicated by more time spent on tasks, higher assignment completion rates, and sustained engagement. The findings suggest that adaptive learning platforms promote SRL and academic persistence by offering personalized, responsive learning experiences. Unlike static, non-adaptive environments, adaptive systems provide dynamic support, enhancing students' ability to regulate their learning and remain engaged despite challenges. The study concludes that adaptive learning systems are vital for long-term academic success, though further research is needed to assess the sustainability of these effects in various educational settings and among diverse student populations.

In adaptive digital learning environments, it is essential to track learning trajectories. The Elo rating system, known for its computational simplicity, is frequently employed for this purpose. Current Elo-based systems cannot handle rapid changes in ability or are unable to balance accuracy and speed when updating player and item ratings. Changes in Elo ratings depend on the sensitivity parameter K. Using fixed K values necessitates a trade-off: larger values facilitate the tracking of evolving ability levels but introduce greater rating volatility. Smaller values yield more stable estimates, but are slower to reflect actual ability levels. Existing modifications of the Elo system, which diminish K as the number of responses increases, are inadequate in scenarios characterized by considerable ability fluctuation, a common occurrence in digital learning environments. To address this challenge, we introduce a novel approach for dynamically adjusting K values in response to observed trends in rating changes. This method increases K during noticeable upward or downward shifts in ratings and reduces it otherwise. We present a computationally efficient implementation of this idea and validate its superiority over existing K adjustment strategies through simulation studies. Additionally, we describe the implementation of this adaptive K model in a widely-used digital learning platform, Math Garden, which leverages both accuracy and response time in its assessments. By successfully integrating speed and precision, this innovative implementation enhances the effectiveness of digital adaptive learning environments.

Studies show that an adaptive learning environment is needed by learners. Adaptive e-learning systems have been developed with personalized instructions based on student's knowledge level. Since each student has a unique cognitive and metacognitive level, we currently develop an adaptive Hypermedia Learning Environment (HLE) for Algorithm and Data Structure Course based on a metacognitive awareness level. HLE provides adaptive scaffolding as instructional interventions to facilitate students' aptitude in programming. Scaffolding can be determined by knowing student's metacognitive awareness level. In this research, we propose the use of Tahani Model of Fuzzy Database in web-based HLE to support the adaptive decision-making. Tahani is one of some feasible models in a fuzzy database that can categorize students' metacognitive awareness level. The produced fuzzy rules have been validated by metacognitive experts of educational psychology. A hundred students have been categorized into three groups (low, medium, high) and provided with appropriate scaffolding. Evaluation results verified the suitability of the proposed method and the student's scaffolding.

This study examines the usage and perceptions of ChatGPT, an AI-driven language model, among Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) students at the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) in Cabanatuan City, Philippines. Utilizing a descriptive research design, the study investigates both the learning outcomes and ethical concerns associated with ChatGPT's application in academic and professional tasks. The research focuses on how ChatGPT influences students' knowledge acquisition, study efficiency, and satisfaction, along with the ethical challenges perceived in relation to academic integrity. Data were collected using a structured survey from a sample of 200 students selected via stratified random sampling to ensure gender- and year-level representation. Data were analyzed using weighted means to measure satisfaction and ethical concerns, while qualitative responses underwent thematic analysis to explore students’ perspectives on the ethical implications of the tool. The findings reveal that students view ChatGPT as a valuable aid in enhancing learning efficiency and accessing knowledge. However, they also acknowledge significant ethical challenges, including risks of academic dishonesty and over-reliance on AI. The study’s key output is a policy brief with actionable recommendations for educators and policymakers, outlining guidelines for balanced AI usage and ethical frameworks to support responsible integration of AI technologies in education.

This study aims to explore the implementation of participatory data-based planning (PDB) in the annual planning process at SD Negeri Ungaran 02, Semarang Regency. Using a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design, this research examines how educational reports are utilized in planning, the role of various stakeholders in the process, and the impact of this approach on improving the quality of education at the school. Data was collected through interviews with the school principal, teachers, school committee members, and parents, as well as through observations and document reviews. The findings reveal that the participatory process of identifying educational reports and involving multiple stakeholders has led to improvements in students' literacy and numeracy skills. However, challenges such as achievement gaps between classes and the limited use of technology in teaching remain. The reflection process on educational reports also highlighted issues such as low parental involvement and variations in teaching quality across classes. While the participatory approach to developing the Annual Work Plan (RKT) ensures broad stakeholder support and alignment with students' needs, the findings indicate that further efforts are needed to address challenges related to parental involvement and the integration of technology in teaching. This study concludes that participatory data-based planning is a crucial strategy for enhancing educational quality, but a more comprehensive approach is required to overcome existing barriers, such as maximizing the use of technology and improving teaching quality consistently across classes. Recommendations are provided for the Department of Education, the school, and teachers to improve the effectiveness of PDB implementation and educational outcomes.