An E-Learning Investigation into Learning Style Adaptivity

Traditional e-learning systems are typically designed for generic learners irrespective of individual requirements. In contrast, adaptive e-learning systems take into account learner characteristics such as learning style and level of knowledge in order to provide more personalised learning. The contribution of this paper is threefold. First, a generic adaptive framework aimed at enhancing learning is proposed. Second, a specific approach to adaptivity based on learning style is put forward within the framework. Third, the framework is validated and the approach is evaluated in order to determine their effectiveness in learning provision in an adaptive e-learning system. An experiment conducted with 60 participants produced positive results. They indicate that adapting instructional material according to learning style yields significantly better learning outcome and learner satisfaction than without adaptation.