Agents in E-Learning in the Business Sector

Interest in the integration of so-called intelligent or pedagogical agents in e-learning, both in business and other settings, is growing. An agent may operate within online instruction as an animated object such as an avatar, cartoon character, a disembodied voice, or, perhaps, a simple text display. The agent monitors the learner’s progress, recommends alternative activities or exercises, or makes other instructionally related recommendations. Agents may also provide useful information to instructors and instructional designers regarding student progress and needs while also suggesting possible design modifications to the instruction. This entry explains how agents function in e-learning and explores extant and potential uses of agents in the business sector.

While use of e-learning in business and higher education differs in regard to context, purposes, learner characteristics, and ...