Should We Use Examples in Intelligent Tutors?

Abstract

Although examples are frequently used by human tutors, they are not common in Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS). Previous research studies over the last three decades compared learning from examples to unsupported problem solving. Only recently there have been studies comparing learning from examples to problem solving in ITSs. This paper reviews those studies. We discuss unsolved issues such as when and how examples should be provided in intelligent tutoring systems, and some options to improve learning from examples.