SHARP Online: An Adaptive Hypermedia System Applied to Mathematical Problem Solving

Ana-Belén Gil (University of Salamanca, Spain)

Raquel Rodríguez (University of Salamanca, Spain)

Francisco J. García-Peñalvo (University of Salamanca, Spain)

Ricardo López (University of Salamanca, Spain)

Abstract: In this article we present the development of a web application called SHARP Online: An Adaptive Hypermedia System Applied to Mathematical Problem Solving. The pedagogical basis of this application is found in the support techniques for heuristic learning in mathematical problem solving developed according to the Schoenfeld model. The adaptivity of this tool is achieved by way of the utilization of an adaptive algorithm which has been developed for it and is described in this article. This algorithm implements mechanisms that make it possible for the user to construct mathematical knowledge adaptively using training methods. This application also provides the teacher with the following complete set of tools for managing the entire process: the inclusion of contents through a collaborative application with support; a shared work space; the adaptivity of the algorithm variables; and the supervision of the students’ progress, etc. through specific modules. This application was originally developed for educational contexts in the area of teaching mathematics, and therefore includes a module for editing and visualizing mathematical formulas for a Web environment.

Keywords: adaptive hypermedia, heuristic thought, interactive learning environments, teaching/learning strategies, user-computer interaction

Categories: G.4, L.0, L.2.0, L.3.0