Evaluation of DM-Tutor, an ITS for Training on Plantation Decision Making

Abstract

Over the years many Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITSs) have been used successfully as teaching and training tools with proven results through evaluation studies. Even though ITSs are effective in providing individualized tutoring to many students at the same time, very few attempts have been made to embed them with existing systems. This area of research has a lot of potential in providing life-long learning and work place training anytime and anywhere. We present the evaluation of DM-Tutor, an ITS that provides training on plantation decision making. DM-Tutor has been embedded with a Management Information System (MIS) to provide scenario-based training using real life operational data and actual plantation conditions. The pilot study conducted in February 2011 shows that DM-Tutor is an effective teaching tool; the performance of the participants on the post-test was significantly higher than their performance on the pre-test. The questionnaire responses show that the participants found the system easy to use and useful.