AUTHORING FOR SIMULATION-BASED LEARNING

This paper describes the SAM (Simulation and Multimedia) project and the rationales behind it. SAM focuses mainly on integrated simulation-based learning environments and creates a framework for authoring, modelling and learning. In these frameworks existing software tools are used where possible and an exchange of tools is enabled. Specialised tools support all actors: learners, authors and modellers. Emphasis will be put on methodologies and graphical tools supporting global course design and integration of simulations. Tools enable also the implementation of general and local course control including instructions for the monitor to recognise and evaluate learner behaviour. SAM methods and techniques are developed to design adaptable courses to meet different learner profiles and to integrate simulations in courseware. This implies a technical integration: the simulation package must accept external control and support an exchange of data. It also implies a conceptual integration: instructional domain concepts must be connected with the model entities; variables, parameters and relations. Instructional objects created with existing authoring tools are incorporated into SAM by specifying a script. The resulting Instructional Scripted Objects (ISOs) enable a smooth transition between different applications and constitute control mechanisms on a local level. These ISOs serve as building blocks within the SAM environment. By connecting these ISOs with a curriculum graph new courses and learning strategies are implemented. Simulation ISOs are offered allowing different levels of freedom: from fully system guided tasks to learner controlled experiments. The monitoring of learner actions and simulation states is possible. Creating and tuning simulations to support instruction will be a collaborative act for author and modeller.