Creating domain independent adaptive e-learning systems using the sharable content object reference model

Purpose - This research aims to investigate how a generic web-based ITS can be created which will adapt the training content in real time, to the needs of the individual trainee across any domain. Design/methodology/approach - After examining the various alternatives SCORM was adopted in this project because it provided an infrastructure that makes it possible to deliver personalised learning dynamically using re-usable learning objects. Findings - The results show that a system which presents a student with content that is supplementary to an authored course should be accompanied by a tool to help the trainee's navigation. For such a tool, key functionality would be: first, to identify learning objects that would take the student towards the ultimate learning goals; second, to suggest a pathway through the authored course structure and additional learning objects to the student; and finally, to present the student with different choices of pathway, such as fastest, most comprehensive and most popular routes. Originality/value - This investigation has taken another approach of adapting the course by displaying an adapted set of learning objects to the trainee, instead of using a linear course structure.