A generalized, rapid authoring tool for intelligent tutoring systems

Abstract

As computer-based training systems become increasingly integrated into real-world training, tools which rapidly author courses for such systems are emerging. However, inconsistent user interface design and limited support for a variety of domains makes them time consuming and difficult to use. We present a Generalized, Rapid Authoring Tool (GRAT), which simplifies creation of Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITSs) using a unified web-based wizard-style graphical user interface and programming-by-demonstration approaches to reduce technical knowledge needed to author ITS logic. We implemented a prototype, which authors courses for two kinds of tasks: A network cabling task and a console device configuration task to demonstrate the tool's potential. We describe the limitations of our prototype and present opportunities for evaluating the tool's usability and perceived effectiveness.