Animated Agents: Motivational Consequences

Abstract

This study identifies animated agents that communicate effectively with learners in a multimedia learning environment. It is based on the social interaction of engineering students with a variety of animated agents that have features and gestures that range from bird-like to human-like. A range of agents with similar non-verbal cues presented engineering principles to students. Then, an evaluation of the students¿ perception of the animated agents, along with learning gains, provided measures for this discussion. New technology has provided the educational community with a variety of animated agents that are compatible with mainstream educational software. In many educational settings, animated agents readily integrate into Microsoft PowerPoint and Web-based instructional programs. Moreover, animated agents have proven to be effective in a variety of educational environments and learning domains. This study focuses on the use of animated agents to teach circuit analysis.