Matching system and matching method

Abstract

To provide a matching system and a matching method that enables a learner taking a correspondence course to easily find a companion to study with. [Solution] The system has a commonality judgment unit that judges the commonality of learning goals and interests between learners, an individual judgment unit that identifies the strengths and weaknesses of each learner, a complementarity judgment unit that judges the mutual complementarity of the strengths and weaknesses between learners, and a matching unit that comprehensively judges the match between learners based on the commonality judgment results and the mutual complementarity judgment results.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technology for providing services to learners taking correspondence courses using a computer system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, an increasing number of students and working adults are studying to obtain qualifications. Examination institutions that support the learning of examinees provide courses to examinees for a fee, in which qualified instructors give lectures on exam subjects. Courses are divided into classroom courses and correspondence courses. In classroom courses, examinees attend classes in classrooms prepared by the examination institution. In correspondence courses, examinees connect an information processing device such as a smartphone or personal computer (PC) to the examination institution's server and watch the course over the network.

[0003] In the case of classroom courses, students inevitably gather in the same classroom, which allows for interaction between students. Students do not feel lonely because they gather in the same classroom. Even if students sometimes find it difficult to concentrate on their studies, they are motivated to learn because they sense the enthusiasm of other students. Students attending classroom courses can maintain their motivation to study even if they are studying for a long period of time.

[0004] On the other hand, in the case of correspondence courses, students do not gather in the same place, so there is little opportunity for interaction between students. Students of correspondence courses do not know who the other students are, so they cannot study with other students and tend to feel lonely. Even if students of correspondence courses want to study with other students so as not to lose motivation, it is difficult to find students who get along with them.

[0005] A system for matching instructors and students in learning instruction services such as online tutoring is proposed in Patent Document 1. The system disclosed in Patent Document 1 uses attribute information of the instructor and student as well as the learning history of the instructor and student to measure the compatibility between the instructor and student. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6950909 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Students who use tutoring services talk online with instructors who are in a higher position than themselves, so misunderstandings are more likely to occur than when they talk face-to-face. Therefore, compatibility between the student and the instructor is an important factor. Also, students tend to be rebellious toward instructors who are in a higher position than themselves, but if they get along well with their instructor, they will be able to listen to the instructor's advice.

[0008] On the other hand, students of correspondence courses are in the same position as each other, that is, they are candidates for exams. The relationship between students of correspondence courses is different from that between instructors and students. Therefore, even if the method disclosed in Patent Document 1 is applied to students of correspondence courses and matching is performed based on compatibility, it is not necessarily possible to find a suitable student.

[0009] One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a matching system and a matching method that make it easier for learners taking correspondence courses to find fellow students to study with. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] A matching system according to one aspect of the present disclosure has a commonality judgment unit that judges the commonality of learning goals and interests between learners, an individual judgment unit that identifies the strengths and weaknesses of each learner, a complementarity judgment unit that judges the mutual complementarity of the strengths and weaknesses between learners, and a matching unit that judges the match between learners comprehensively based on the commonality judgment results and the mutual complementarity judgment results. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a learner is matched with other learners who have similarities with him / her and who have complementary strengths and weaknesses, so that the learner can not only maintain his / her motivation to learn, but also easily find a study buddy who can improve his / her weaknesses. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a basic configuration of a matching system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 4 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the matching system of the present embodiment. [Diagram 3] 11 is a table showing an example of goal / interest information. [Figure 4] 13 is a table illustrating an example of strengths and weaknesses information. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a score calculation table for goal / interest information. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a score calculation table for strengths and weaknesses information. [Figure 7] 13 is a table showing an example of numerical values ​​for each rank of weighting added to strengths and weaknesses information. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the matching system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a matching system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] 11 is a table showing an example of performance information. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on an information processing terminal operated by a learner. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a matching system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 13] 11 is a table illustrating an example of attribute information. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an operation procedure of the matching system and the information processing terminal of the third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a matching system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram of a group information DB according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an image on a group bulletin board displayed on an information processing terminal operated by a learner. [Figure 18] FIG. 23 is a sequence diagram showing an operation procedure of the matching system and the information processing terminal of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 23 is a sequence diagram showing an operation procedure of the matching system and the information processing terminal of the seventh embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] The present embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The matching system of the present embodiment is a computer system that provides lecture content consisting of video and audio to multiple learners. In the present embodiment, the computer system is used, for example, for learners to study subjects for a qualification examination with the aim of passing the examination. However, in the present embodiment, a detailed description of the technology by which the computer system provides lecture content to multiple learners via a network will be omitted.

[0014] The purpose of this embodiment is to make it easier for learners taking correspondence courses using a computer system to find fellow learners. The configuration of the matching system of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the basic configuration of the matching system of this embodiment. The matching system 1 of this embodiment has a commonality judgment unit 2, an individual judgment unit 3, a complementarity judgment unit 4, a matching unit 5, and a learner information database (DB) 11.

[0015] The operation of the matching system 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the matching system of this embodiment.

[0016] In step S101, the commonality determination unit 2 determines the commonality of learning goals and interests between the learners 90. Information on the learning goals and interests of each learner 90 is registered in advance in the learner information DB 11. The information on learning goals and interests is input to the learner information DB 11 by each learner 90 by means of, for example, a questionnaire. The commonality determination unit 2 refers to the learner information DB 11 and determines the commonality of learning goals and interests between the learners 90.

[0017] In step S102, the individual judgment unit 3 identifies the strengths and weaknesses of each learner 90. The strengths and weaknesses are, for example, good subjects and poor subjects. Information on the strengths and weaknesses of each learner 90 is registered in advance in the learner information DB11. The information on the strengths and weaknesses is input by each learner 90 to the learner information DB11 by means of, for example, a questionnaire. The individual judgment unit 3 refers to the learner information DB11 to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each learner 90.

[0018] In step S103, the complementarity judgment unit 4 judges the complementarity of the strengths and weaknesses between the learners 90. For example, in a matching judgment between the learners 90a and 90b, if the good subjects of the learner 90a match the weak subjects of the learner 90b, the complementarity score of the learners 90a and 90b improves. If the bad subjects of the learner 90a match the good subjects of the learner 90b, the complementarity score of the learners 90a and 90b improves further. The learners 90a and 90b can improve their grades in their weak subjects by teaching each other how to study their strong subjects.

[0019] In step S104, the matching unit 5 comprehensively judges matching between the learners 90 based on the judgment results of commonality and complementarity. The matching unit 5 notifies the multiple learners 90 judged as study companions of their respective contact information so that they can contact each other. The contact information is, for example, an email address of an information processing terminal such as a smartphone carried by the learner 90.

[0020] The matching method disclosed in Patent Document 1 targets combinations between instructors and students. The relationship between an instructor and a student is one in which one improves the academic ability of the other, that is, a relationship that benefits the other. In contrast, the matching method of this embodiment targets learners. A relationship between learners must provide benefits to both parties. A relationship in which only one party gains and the other party loses will not last long. In matching learners, not only commonalities but also complementary elements are important.

[0021] According to this embodiment, a learner is matched with other learners who have a high degree of commonality with the learner and who have a relationship in which the learner's strengths and weaknesses are complemented. Therefore, by studying with the matched other learners, the learner can not only maintain his or her motivation to study, but also improve his or her own weaknesses. As a result, the learner's grades improve. EXAMPLES

[0022] A matching system 1 according to the first embodiment has the configuration shown in FIG. 1 and operates according to the flow shown in FIG.

[0023] A specific example of information stored in the learner information DB11 shown in Fig. 1 will be described. The learner information DB11 stores goal / interest information including the learning goal and interest information of each learner, strengths and weaknesses information of each learner, and multiple score calculation tables. The strengths and weaknesses information is information on the strengths and weaknesses of each learner for each multiple evaluation items. The score calculation table is a table for quantifying the degree of matching.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a table showing an example of goal / interest information. In goal / interest information 51, learning goals and interests are registered in association with a learner number that individually identifies each learner. Interests include cooking, preferences, hobbies, and special skills. For example, in the case of a learner with learner number 003, information such as a learning goal of "10% increase in grades in subject Sb1," a preference of "ramen," and a hobby of "appreciation of rakugo" is registered. Note that multiple options for learning goals may be prepared in advance so that the learner can select from the multiple options. By preparing multiple options in advance, there is an advantage in that it becomes easier to extract learners with matching learning goals.

[0025] If a learner's learning goals and the interests that the learner values ​​are similar to those of other learners, there is a high possibility that the learner and the other learners will get along well. When learners have the same learning goals, they can easily exchange information and maintain their motivation to learn. When it comes to cooking and preferences, if you have similar likes and dislikes in food, it is easy to have a lively conversation. However, learners who are not very interested in food will not be particular about cooking preferences. If you have similar hobbies and special skills, it is easy to have a lively conversation. However, learners who do not talk much about hobbies or special skills will not be particular about hobbies and special skills.

[0026] As described above, among a plurality of items related to interests, there is a tendency for learners to place different importance on different items. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3, the degree of importance placed by the learner on each item related to interests is registered. In the first embodiment, the degree of importance is divided into three ranks, A to C. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the degree of importance is indicated in the column to the right of each item as rank A, B, or C. Rank A indicates "high importance". Rank B indicates "moderate importance". Rank C indicates "no importance". Information on the degree of importance placed on each item is obtained, for example, by sending a questionnaire to each learner and having them enter their answers to the questionnaire.

[0027] Referring to Figure 3, for example, learner number 001 places great importance on cooking / preferences but little importance on hobbies / skills. Learner number 003 places moderate importance on both cooking / preferences and hobbies / skills.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a table showing an example of strengths and weaknesses information. In the strengths and weaknesses information 52, evaluation items such as learning field, memorization, and planning are registered in association with the learner number. Planning is related to whether or not a learner is good at carrying out learning as planned. Memorization and planning are examples of evaluation items related to learning methods. Referring to FIG. 4, for example, in the case of a learner with learner number 003, information is registered that the learner is good at subject Sb2 but not good at subject Sb1, is not good at memorization, but is good at planning.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 4, the strengths and weaknesses information 52 also registers a weighting w indicating how important the learner places importance on each item. In the first embodiment, the weighting w is divided into three ranks, A to C. Rank A indicates "very important." Rank B indicates "fairly important." Rank C indicates "not important." The information on the weighting w for each item is obtained, for example, by sending a questionnaire to each learner and having them enter their answers to the questionnaire.

[0030] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a score calculation table for goal / interest information. A score calculation method for each item of goal / interest information 51 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. The score calculation table 61 in FIG. 5 is a list of scores for combinations of item weighting and match or mismatch. Since a match of a learning goal among goal / interest information 51 affects compatibility regardless of whether the learner places importance on it or not, the degree of importance placed on the learning goal by the learner is not set and the score is determined in advance. Since the influence of each item related to interests among goal / interest information 51 on compatibility changes depending on whether the learner places importance on the item, the score is weighted according to the degree of importance placed on the item by the learner.

[0031] If a learner's learning goals match those of other learners, the score is 15 points. If a learner's learning goals do not match those of other learners, the score is 0 points. Regarding interests, if a learner's weighting (degree of importance given by the learner) of an item is rank A and the rank of that item matches that of other learners, the score of that item is 10 points. Also, if a learner's weighting (degree of importance given by the learner) of an item is rank A and the rank of that item does not match that of other learners, the score of that item is 0 points. If a learner's weighting (degree of importance given by the learner) of an item is rank B and the rank of that item matches that of other learners, the score of that item is 5 points. If a learner's weighting (degree of importance given by the learner) of an item is rank B and the rank of that item does not match that of other learners, the score of that item is 0 points. If a learner's weighting (degree of importance given to the learner) of an item is rank C, the item will receive a score of 0, regardless of whether it matches or does not match that of other learners.

[0032] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a score calculation table for strengths and weaknesses information. Fig. 6 describes the case of the three evaluation items shown in Fig. 4, but the number of evaluation items is not limited to three. A method of calculating a basic score for each item of strengths and weaknesses information will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The score calculation table 62 in Fig. 6 is a list of scores for each evaluation item, depending on whether or not the condition is met.

[0033] Regarding the learning field, if a learner's strong subject matches the weak subject of another learner who is the subject of the matching evaluation, then condition 1 is set. If a learner's weak subject matches the strong subject of another learner, then condition 2 is set. If both conditions 1 and 2 are met, the base score is 10 points. If only one of conditions 1 or 2 is met, the base score is 5 points. If neither condition 1 nor condition 2 is met, the base score is 0 points. Regarding memorization, if a learner is good at it but the other learner is bad at it, then the base score is 5 points. If a learner is bad at it but the other learner is good at it, then the base score is 5 points. If both a learner and the other learner are good or bad at it, then the base score is 0 points. Regarding planning, if a learner is good at executing things according to plans but the other learner is bad at it, then the base score is 5 points. If a learner is bad at executing things according to plans but the other learner is good at it, then the base score is 5 points. If a learner is neither good nor bad at planning, the base score is 0.

[0034] FIG. 7 is a table showing an example of the numerical values ​​for each weighting rank added to strengths and weaknesses information. In the weighting table 63, coefficients are described corresponding to the rank of the weighting w. As shown in FIG. 7, when the rank of the weighting w is A, the coefficient by which the basic score shown in FIG. 6 is multiplied is 2.0. When the rank of the weighting w is B, the coefficient by which the basic score shown in FIG. 6 is multiplied is 1.5. When the rank of the weighting w is C, the coefficient by which the basic score shown in FIG. 6 is multiplied is 1.0.

[0035] Contact information of the learner may be stored in association with the learner number in the learner information DB 11. For example, the contact information is registered in the table of goal / interest information 51 shown in Fig. 3 or strengths and weaknesses information 52 shown in Fig. 4. The contact information may be an email address, a telephone number, an address, or the like.

[0036] Next, the operation of the matching system 1 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. As a specific example, a case will be described in which other learners suitable as study companions for a learner with a learner number of 001 are extracted.

[0037] In step S101, the commonality determination unit 2 determines the commonality of learning goals and interests between learners. Specifically, the commonality determination unit 2 uses the goal / interest information 51 to calculate a commonality matching score, which is a matching score indicating the degree of agreement between each item of the goal / interest information 51 between learners. The method of calculating the commonality matching score is determined with the purpose of determining the compatibility between learners. The commonality matching score is the sum of the scores of each item included in the goal / interest information 51. Hereinafter, this sum will be referred to as Sum1.

[0038] The scores of items 1 to m (m is an integer equal to or greater than 1) of goal / interest information 51 are designated as SC1 to SCm. The commonality determination unit 2 calculates the sum Sum1(j) of the learner with learner number 001 as the commonality matching score with another learner j, using the following formula [1]. Sum1(j)=SC1+SC2+···+SCm···[1]

[0039] Sum1(j) is calculated for each other learner j. In other words, if the number of other learners j is n (n is an integer equal to or greater than 1), the commonality determination unit 2 calculates Sum1(1), Sum1(2), ..., Sum1(n).

[0040] In step S102, the individual judgment unit 3 identifies the strengths and weaknesses of each learner by referring to the strengths and weaknesses information 52 registered in the learner information DB 11. For example, the individual judgment unit 3 identifies that the learner with the learner number 001 is good at subject Sb1 but not good at subject Sb2, and is good at memorizing but not good at executing things in a planned manner.

[0041] In step S103, the complementarity judgment unit 4 judges the mutual complementarity of the strengths and weaknesses between the learners based on the information identified by the individual judgment unit 3. Specifically, the complementarity judgment unit 4 uses the strengths and weaknesses information 52 to calculate a complementarity matching score, which is a matching score indicating the degree to which the strengths and weaknesses of the learners complement each other. The method of calculating the complementarity matching score is determined with the purpose of judging the complementarity between the learners. The complementarity matching score is the sum of the scores of each item included in the strengths and weaknesses information. Hereinafter, this sum will be referred to as Sum2.

[0042] In the strengths and weaknesses information 52, the basic scores of evaluation items 1 to q (q is an integer equal to or greater than 1) are denoted as SK1 to SKq, and the weights w are denoted as w1 to wq. The complementarity determination unit 4 calculates the sum Sum2(j) of the learner with learner number 001 as the complementarity matching score with another learner j, using the following formula [2]. Sum2(j)=SK1×w1+SK2×w2+··+SKq×wq···[2]

[0043] Sum2(j) is calculated for each of the other learners j. In this example, since the number of other learners j is n, the complementarity determining unit 4 calculates Sum2(1), Sum2(2), . . . , Sum2(n).

[0044] In step S104, the matching unit 5 comprehensively judges matching between the learners based on the judgment results of commonality and complementarity. Specifically, the matching unit 5 calculates TSum(j), which is the sum of the sum values ​​Sum1(j) and Sum2(j) of a learner, for each of the other learners j (=1 to n). In other words, the matching unit 5 calculates TSum(j)=Sum1(j)+Sum2(j) for each of j=1 to n.

[0045] The matching unit 5 determines other learners j, among TSum(1) to TSum(n), whose score value is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value SRth, as suitable fellow learners for the learner with learner number 001. The method of determining suitable fellow learners is not limited to this method. For example, the matching unit 5 may determine other learners j up to a predetermined rank, among TSum(1) to TSum(n), as suitable fellow learners for the learner with learner number 001, with the highest score ranked as number 1.

[0046] The matching system 1 extracts suitable fellow learners for each of the other learners j in the same manner as the process described with reference to FIG. 2. Thereafter, the matching unit 5 groups multiple learners determined to be fellow learners from among many learners using the computer system into the same group. Furthermore, the matching unit 5 notifies multiple learners belonging to the same group that they belong to the same group, and provides a means for the learners to communicate with each other. For example, the matching unit 5 makes a list containing the contact information of each of the multiple learners belonging to the same group available to the learners in the group.

[0047] In the first embodiment, the weight w is added to the strengths and weaknesses information 52, but the weight w does not have to be added. In addition, attribute information such as gender, age, occupation, address, and educational background may be included as items for determining commonality.

[0048] The matching system 1 of the first embodiment matches learners with common learning goals and interests, and proposes mutually complementary group formation by analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of each learner. Relationships in which one of multiple learners gains or loses unilaterally do not last long. In contrast, the matching method of the first embodiment matches learners to have mutually complementary relationships, so that learning partnerships can be promoted. Since the matched multiple learners have common learning goals and interests, it is easy for them to find friends to continue studying together. Furthermore, when attribute information such as gender, age, occupation, address, and educational background are included in the index of commonality judgment, a more compatible group formation can be proposed.

[0049] Here, an example of a hardware configuration of the matching system 1 of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the matching system of the first embodiment. The matching system 1 is, for example, an information processing device such as a server. The matching system 1 is connected to an information processing terminal 30 via a communication network such as the Internet. The information processing terminal 30 is an information processing device such as a smartphone or a PC. The information processing terminal 30 is an information processing device operated by a learner 90 who takes lecture content.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 8, the matching system 1 has, as hardware, a processor 21, a main memory 22, a storage device 23, a communication device 24, an input device 25, and a display device 26, which are connected to a bus 27.

[0051] The storage device 23 stores data in a writable and readable manner. The learner information DB 11 shown in FIG. 1 is constructed by the storage device 23. The storage device 23 is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). The main memory 22 is, for example, a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory. The processor 21 is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU). The processor 21 is a processor that reads data stored in the storage device 23 into the main memory 22 and executes processing of a software program using the main memory 22. The processor 21 executes the software program to realize the commonality determination unit 2, the individual determination unit 3, the complementarity determination unit 4, and the matching unit 5 shown in FIG. 1.

[0052] The communication device 24 transmits information processed by the processor 21 via a communication network including wired or wireless or both, and also transmits information received via the communication network to the processor 21. The received information is used for software processing by the processor 21. The input device 25 is a device that accepts information input by an operator using a keyboard, mouse, or the like, and the input information is used for software processing by the processor 21. For example, a survey result is input to the storage device 23 via the communication device 24 or the input device 25. The display device 26 is a device that displays image or text information on a display screen in conjunction with software processing by the processor 21. The input device 25 and the display device 26 are provided mainly for use not by the learners 90 but by an administrator (not shown) of a computer system that provides lecture content to the learners 90.

[0053] The information processing terminal 30 has a camera 31, a microphone 32, a speaker 33, a display 34, a memory (not shown), and a processor (not shown). The memory stores a browser 35 which is a browsing application software program. The processor executes the browser 35 stored in the memory. A learner 90 connects to the matching system 1 using the browser 35 on the information processing terminal 30, and uses the services provided by the matching system 1.

[0054] The matching system 1 of the first embodiment has a commonality judgment unit 2, an individual judgment unit 3, a complementarity judgment unit 4, and a matching unit 5. The commonality judgment unit 2 judges the commonality of learning goals and interests between learners. The individual judgment unit 3 identifies the strengths and weaknesses of each learner. The complementarity judgment unit 4 judges the mutual complementarity of the strengths and weaknesses between learners. The matching unit 5 comprehensively judges the matching between learners based on the judgment results of commonality and complementarity.

[0055] According to the first embodiment, a learner is matched with other learners who have a high commonality with the learner and who have a relationship of complementing each other's strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, the learner can not only maintain his / her motivation to study, but also easily find a study partner who can improve his / her weaknesses. As a result, the learner's grades improve by studying with the other matched learners. EXAMPLES

[0056] In Example 2, multiple learners matched by the present embodiment compete with each other, thereby increasing the motivation of each learner to learn. For example, rankings of the grades of learners in the same group are made public to the multiple matched learners.

[0057] A configuration of a matching system according to a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, a configuration different from that described in the first embodiment will be described, and a detailed description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment will be omitted. Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of the matching system according to the second embodiment.

[0058] The matching system 1a of the second embodiment has a grade disclosure unit 7 in addition to the components shown in Fig. 1. In the second embodiment, the learner information DB 11 stores the grades of each learner 90. The grade disclosure unit 7 obtains the ranks of the grades of the matched learners 90, and provides the obtained ranks of the grades to the learners 90 in a viewable state.

[0059] FIG. 10 is a table showing an example of the grade information. In the grade information 71, records such as a group ID (GID), a nickname, grades of exercises for each subject, and study time in a predetermined period are registered in association with a learner number. The group ID is an identifier that is different for each group to which a plurality of learners matched by this embodiment belong. The grade is, for example, the score of exercises for each subject. The records include the study time Hwst [hours] for one week, the start time of early morning study Tems [hh:mm], and the problem exercise time Hexe [hours] for one week. Although not shown in FIG. 10, information on accumulated points, which is the total value of points given in correspondence with the grade, is recorded in the grade information 71. Points will be explained later.

[0060] For example, in the case of a learner with learner number 003, the group ID is 02, the nickname is "Maruo," and the grades include 70 points for practice problems in subject Sb1 and 80 points for subject Sb2, which are registered in the grade information 71. Also, as records of the learner with learner number 003, the grade information 71 records that the weekly study time Hwst for a certain week was 13 hours, the early morning study start time Tems on the recording date was 8:00 a.m., and the problem practice time Hexe was 10 hours.

[0061] Next, the operation of the result disclosure unit 7 will be described. The result disclosure unit 7 periodically refers to the results and records of each of the multiple learners belonging to each group, and implements measures to stimulate the learners' motivation to study. The measures include giving points, creating rankings, awarding badges, and encouraging level-up.

[0062] A specific example of point allocation will be described. The result disclosure unit 7 allocates points to each learner according to their results on the exercises. The result disclosure unit 7 displays the total accumulated points, which is the total value of the allocated points, on the display 34 of the learner's information processing terminal 30. The better the results of each learner, the higher the total accumulated points will be, which will increase the learner's motivation to learn.

[0063] A specific example of ranking creation will be described. The result disclosure unit 7 creates a ranking for at least one of a plurality of learning-related indicators for each group, and makes the created ranking publicly available for viewing by a plurality of learners belonging to the same group. The ranking may be, for example, a "weekly study time ranking," a "early morning study start ranking," or a "problem practice time ranking."

[0064] The performance disclosure unit 7 refers to the performance information, searches for an index in which each of multiple learners belonging to the same group can be ranked at the top, and creates a ranking. It is not limited to the top ranking, and may be a ranking higher than a predetermined ranking. The predetermined ranking is, for example, fourth place when the number of people in the group is 10 or more. When a ranking of performance is displayed, a learner who has just started studying always ends up at the bottom of the ranking, and his motivation to study decreases. In contrast, a learner's motivation to study increases when a ranking in which he or she is ranked at the top is displayed. Furthermore, the performance disclosure unit 7 may create a ranking for each learner in which, if the learner is ranked at the top of one index, the learner can be ranked at the top of another index. In this way, the performance disclosure unit 7 increases the strengths of each learner and encourages their growth.

[0065] A specific example of badge awarding will be described. The result disclosure unit 7 awards a badge when a learner meets a specific condition. The specific condition is, for example, obtaining a predetermined score or more for the practice questions of each subject. The result disclosure unit 7 displays the awarded badge on the display 34 of the learner's information processing terminal 30. Each time a learner obtains a predetermined score for each subject, the learner's motivation to learn increases.

[0066] A specific example of level-up promotion will be described. A plurality of levels are set in advance from the lowest level to the highest level corresponding to the accumulated points. The result disclosure unit 7 increases the level of each learner from the plurality of levels in order from the lowest level to the highest level corresponding to the accumulated points. The plurality of levels are, for example, bronze member, silver member, gold member, and platinum member. Bronze member is the lowest level, and platinum member is the highest level. Also, the benefits that the learner can obtain differ depending on each level. For example, if the benefit is a price discount rate of the learning material, the price discount rate is 5% for bronze member, 10% for silver member, 15% for gold member, and 20% for platinum member. The learner 90 makes an effort to improve his / her grades in order to obtain better benefits.

[0067] When the result disclosure unit 7 receives an access request from the learner's information processing terminal 30, it creates an image 81 shown in Fig. 11 and transmits data of the created image 81 to the learner's information processing terminal 30. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the information processing terminal operated by the learner. The information processing terminal 30 displays the image 81 shown in Fig. 11 on the display 34.

[0068] Here, a case will be described in which image 81 is displayed when a learner with learner number 001 operates information processing terminal 30 to log in to his or her own web page. In the following, the learner with learner number 001 will be referred to as "Mr. Toad." As shown in FIG. 11, image 81 has a learning item selection field 82, a point display field 84, a badge display field 85, and a ranking display field 86.

[0069] In the learning item selection field 82, buttons 83 for the first exam preparation course, the second exam preparation course, exercises, and grades are displayed. Mr. Toad operates the information processing terminal 30 and selects one of these buttons 83 to take a correspondence course, answer exercises, or refer to his grades. When the button 83 for taking a course or an exercise is selected, the grade disclosure unit 7 measures the time from the start time of the course or the start time of the exercise to the end time, writes the start time and the measured time in the grade information 71, and updates the grade information 71. When Mr. Toad inputs an answer to an exercise for each subject, the grade disclosure unit 7 compares the answer with a correct answer registered in advance, writes a grade including information on the score corresponding to the number of correct answers in the grade information 71, and updates the grade information 71. The grade is not limited to the percentage of correct answers to the exercises, but may be the result of a mock exam or the like.

[0070] The points display field 84 displays the accumulated points awarded according to the results and the level corresponding to the accumulated points. A plurality of levels are provided from the lowest level to the highest level corresponding to the accumulated points. The plurality of levels are, for example, bronze member, silver member, gold member, and platinum member. Bronze member is the lowest level, and platinum member is the highest level. The points display field 84 in FIG. 11 shows that Mr. Toad's level is "silver member."

[0071] Badges 85a and 85b acquired by Mr. Toad are displayed in the badge display field 85. The badge 85a was awarded by the grade disclosure department 7 because Mr. Toad obtained 60 points or more on the practice questions in subject Sb1. The badge 85b was awarded by the grade disclosure department 7 because Mr. Toad obtained 60 points or more on the practice questions in subject Sb2.

[0072] In the ranking display field 86, various rankings are displayed for multiple learners who belong to the same group as Mr. Toad. That is, rankings of weekly study time, early morning study start time, problem practice time, and grades are made public on the personal page of each learner in the same group for multiple learners who belong to the group with group ID 01. The grades ranking is, for example, a ranking of scores for each subject. The ranking display field 86 in FIG. 11 shows that Mr. Toad is ranked first in the ranking of early morning study start time. Assume that Mr. Toad is a learner who has been studying for an exam for, for example, less than three months. In this case, Mr. Toad is likely to be ranked low in the ranking of grades. However, as shown in the ranking display field 86 in FIG. 11, Mr. Toad is ranked first in the ranking of early morning study start time. The ranking in which Mr. Toad is ranked first is made public not only to Mr. Toad himself but also to his fellow learners in the same group. Mr. Toad's motivation to study increases further when his peers recognize his efforts.

[0073] In the second embodiment, three examples of rankings have been described, but the number of types of rankings is not limited to three. It is desirable to provide many types of rankings from various perspectives in order to motivate many learners to study. The subject of rankings for early morning study is not limited to the time Teme at which study began. The subject of rankings for early morning study may be, for example, study time during a predetermined morning time period (for example, 4:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m.). The rankings for study time are not limited to study time per week. The rankings for study time may be, for example, study time on holidays.

[0074] The matching system 1a of the second embodiment uses gamification to draw out the motivation to learn of each learner 90 for each group made up of multiple matched learners. Each of the multiple learners belonging to the same group competes with peers who have commonalities and complementarities to achieve learning goals in a game-like manner, which increases the motivation to learn and improves grades compared to when studying alone.

[0075] According to the second embodiment, matched learners can compete with each other on grades, thereby increasing their motivation to study. EXAMPLES

[0076] Example 3 enhances a sense of camaraderie by providing an environment where multiple learners who have been matched by this embodiment can come together.

[0077] A configuration of a matching system according to a third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, a configuration different from that described in the first and second embodiments will be described, and a detailed description of the same configuration as in the first and second embodiments will be omitted. Fig. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of the matching system according to the third embodiment.

[0078] 1, the matching system 1b of the third embodiment has a platform providing unit 8. In the third embodiment, the learner information DB 11 stores attribute information of each learner 90. The platform providing unit 8 connects the information processing terminals 30 of the matched learners 90 via a network, and provides an environment that enables the learners 90 to exchange information.

[0079] 13 is a table showing an example of attribute information. In the attribute information 72, information such as group ID, gender, age, occupation, address, educational background, and terminal ID are registered in association with a learner number. The terminal ID is an identifier on the network of the information processing terminal 30 operated by the learner. The terminal ID is, for example, an MAC (Media Access Control) address, an IP (Internet Protocol) address, or an identifier combining a MAC address and an IP address. In the case of a learner with a learner number of 003, it is registered that the group ID is 02, gender is male, age is 32, occupation is company employee, address is Nara, educational background is university graduate, and terminal ID is 3d:04:...

[0080] Each of the multiple learners matched by this embodiment wants to exchange information with the other learners through conversation or chat in order to understand what kind of people the other learners are in the same group. However, multiple learners belonging to the same group do not necessarily live close to each other, and it may be difficult for the learners to meet in person. Therefore, the platform providing unit 8 provides a communication environment for multiple learners belonging to the same group to be able to have voice conversations or send and receive texts with each other via a network.

[0081] The communication environment provided by the platform providing unit 8 is, for example, in the form of an online meeting. The communication environment provided by the platform providing unit 8 may be in the form of each learner gathering their avatar, which is their avatar, in a virtual space. Information exchange may be by voice conversation or by sending and receiving messages in text, as in chat. In the case of an online meeting, a learner may make an image of his or her face captured by the camera 31 available to other learners.

[0082] Furthermore, the platform providing unit 8 provides the attribute information of the matched learners to the multiple learners in a viewable state. The matched learners disclose their own attribute information to each other. By disclosing personal information to learners in the same group, they can gain a deeper understanding of what kind of people the other learners are, and a sense of camaraderie is enhanced. When their information is disclosed to people they do not know, learners are less resistant to disclosure if it is disclosed to other matched learners. Of the attribute information 72 shown in FIG. 13, the terminal ID may be kept private.

[0083] Furthermore, the platform providing unit 8 may provide the multiple learners with information on the learning goals of the matched multiple learners (for example, see goal / interest information 51 shown in FIG. 3) in a viewable state. In this case, multiple learners belonging to the same group recognize that they have common learning goals by sharing the learning goal information, and this increases their sense of responsibility for the learning goals.

[0084] Next, the operation of the matching system 1b of the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram showing the operation procedure of the matching system and the information processing terminal of the third embodiment. For simplicity of explanation, the case will be described in which there are two learners, learner 90a and learner 90b, who are matched by this embodiment. Learner 90a and learner 90b belong to the same group. The information processing terminal 30 operated by learner 90a is referred to as information processing terminal 30a, and the information processing terminal 30 operated by learner 90b is referred to as information processing terminal 30b.

[0085] In step S201, the platform providing unit 8 transmits to the information processing terminals 30a and 30b inquiry information inquiring about the presence or absence of consent to disclosure of attribute information within the group and about candidate dates and times for an online meeting. Upon receiving the inquiry information from the matching system 1b, each of the information processing terminals 30a and 30b displays the inquiry information on the display 34.

[0086] The learner 90a inputs to the information processing terminal 30a the consent to the disclosure of the attribute information within the group and the candidate date and time of the online meeting. In step S202, the information processing terminal 30a transmits answer information including the consent to the disclosure of the attribute information within the group and information on the candidate date and time to the matching system 1b. Furthermore, the learner 90b inputs to the information processing terminal 30b the consent to the disclosure of the attribute information within the group and the candidate date and time of the online meeting. In step S203, the information processing terminal 30b transmits to the matching system 1b the answer information including the consent to the disclosure of the attribute information within the group and information on the candidate date and time. There may be multiple candidate dates and times included in the answer information.

[0087] When the platform providing unit 8 receives the answer information from each of the information processing terminals 30a and 30b, the platform providing unit 8 checks the contents of the two pieces of answer information received. If the check result shows that the contents of both pieces of answer information consent to the disclosure of the attribute information within the group, the platform providing unit 8 discloses the attribute information within the group (step S204). For example, the platform providing unit 8 transmits link information for accessing the attribute information of the learners 90a and 90b in the learner information DB11 to the information processing terminals 30a and 30b.

[0088] Furthermore, the platform providing unit 8 reads out candidate date and time information from each of the two pieces of answer information, and checks whether there is a date and time period that is convenient for both the learners 90a and 90b. If there is a date and time period that is convenient for both the learners 90a and 90b, the platform providing unit 8 determines the date and time period as the date and time for the online meeting (step S205).

[0089] In step S206, the platform providing unit 8 transmits meeting information to the information processing terminals 30a and 30b to notify the learners 90a and 90b of the date and time of the online meeting. The meeting information includes the date, start time, and end time of the meeting, and information on a link to a communication environment that enables communication of image, audio, and text data between the learners 90a and 90b.

[0090] In step S207, when the date and time of the online meeting arrives, each of the learners 90a and 90b connects their information processing terminal 30 to the link destination. This allows the learners 90a and 90b to exchange information online via the information processing terminals 30a and 30b, and to converse, for example, by voice. The learners 90a and 90b can converse while referring to each other's attribute information, and therefore can better understand each other.

[0091] According to the third embodiment, matched learners gather together to exchange information, which allows them to understand each other's personalities and enhances their sense of camaraderie. Also, by sharing attribute information of each person among matched learners, the sense of camaraderie is further enhanced. Furthermore, by sharing information on learning goals among matched learners, the sense of responsibility to achieve the goal as a group is enhanced. EXAMPLES

[0092] In Example 4, learners who are matched by this embodiment can share their success experiences from their learning outcomes to enhance their motivation to learn. For example, the matched learners can view the learning materials and notes that each person used for learning.

[0093] A configuration of a matching system according to a fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, a configuration different from that described in the first to third embodiments will be described, and a detailed description of the same configuration as in the first to third embodiments will be omitted. Fig. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of the matching system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0094] 1, the matching system 1c of the fourth embodiment has a group information DB 12 and a platform providing unit 8. The group information DB 12 stores content including learning materials and / or notes studied by each learner 90 for each group to which the matched learners 90 belong. The platform providing unit 8 provides the content stored for each group by the group information DB 12 to the learners 90 of the same group in a viewable state.

[0095] 16 is an image diagram of the group information DB in the fourth embodiment. The group information DB 12 holds folders FGID corresponding to each of the groups GID=01 to GID=p (p is an integer equal to or greater than 1). The folder FGID-01 is a folder for the group GID=01. The folder FGID-p is a folder for the group GID=p. Each folder FGID stores content including teaching materials and / or notes uploaded by learners in the group corresponding to the folder.

[0096] Next, the operation of the platform providing unit 8 in the fourth embodiment will be described. When the platform providing unit 8 receives content from the information processing terminal 30, the platform providing unit 8 refers to the attribute information shown in FIG. 13 and identifies the group to which the learner of the information processing terminal 30 belongs based on the terminal ID of the information processing terminal 30. The platform providing unit 8 stores the content in the folder FGID of the identified group in the group information DB 12. In addition, the platform providing unit 8 grants, for each group, the information processing terminal 30 of the learner belonging to the group the authority to access the folder FGID corresponding to the group. For example, the platform providing unit 8 transmits account and password information for accessing the folder FGID-01 to the information processing terminal 30 of the learner belonging to the group with the group ID of 01. The account and password information of each group is stored in the main memory 22 or the storage device 23 shown in FIG. 8.

[0097] When the learner inputs the notified account and password into the information processing terminal 30, the information processing terminal 30 transmits the account and password information to the matching system 1c. When the platform providing unit 8 receives the account and password information from the information processing terminal 30, it enables the learner to view the content stored in the folder FGID of the group to which the learner belongs in the information processing terminal 30 via the information processing terminal 30. In this way, in each group, the learning materials and / or notes used by the learners can be shared among themselves. When results such as improved grades are achieved as a result of the learning materials and / or notes used, the learners can celebrate even small successes with their peers and share the experience of success, thereby increasing their motivation to learn.

[0098] Furthermore, when questions are written in a notebook stored in the group information DB12, the platform providing unit 8 may obtain answers to the questions and make the questions and answers public so that the learners in the group can view them. For example, when a learner 90a has written questions about the learning content in a notebook, the platform providing unit 8 reads out the questions from the notebook stored in the group information DB12. Next, the platform providing unit 8 inputs the read out questions into a generating AI (Artificial Intelligence) unit (not shown). The generating AI unit may be provided in the matching system 1, or may be a general-purpose generating AI provided in an external server (not shown) connected to the matching system 1 via a network.

[0099] The generation AI unit has a large-scale language model, and when a question is input as a prompt to the large-scale language model, the generation AI unit outputs an answer obtained from the large-scale language model. When the generation AI unit is provided in the matching system 1, the storage device 23 shown in FIG. 8 stores the large-scale language model. When the platform providing unit 8 receives the answer from the generation AI unit, it makes the question and the answer by the generation AI unit viewable within the group to which the learner 90a belongs. When the learner saves the notebook in which the question is written in the group information DB12, not only the learner but also other learners belonging to the same group can read the answer to the question, improving the learning efficiency of the entire group.

[0100] The content shared in the group is not limited to learning materials and notes. The content shared in the group may be, for example, a learning record. A learning record is a record of the study time and / or the learning progress of multiple learners belonging to the group. By sharing the learning record, the learners can compete with each other and increase their motivation to study. The content shared in the group may also be a learning diary. A learning diary is a diary in which each of the multiple learners belonging to the group records their daily learning content and / or impressions. Learners in the group can encourage each other by writing comments or attaching support stamps in the shared learning diary.

[0101] According to the fourth embodiment, matched learners can share the learning materials and / or notes they used, and can refer to the learning methods of other learners to improve their own learning methods. Also, they can share their success stories based on the results they obtained using the content published within the group. EXAMPLES

[0102] Example 5 is to increase motivation to learn by encouraging each other among the learners who are matched by this embodiment. The learning progress of each of the matched learners is made public, and a bulletin board is provided where each learner can comment on the learning progress of the other learners.

[0103] The configuration of a matching system according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15. In the fifth embodiment, a configuration different from the configurations described in the first to fourth embodiments will be described, and a detailed description of the configuration similar to the first to fourth embodiments will be omitted.

[0104] The matching system 1c of the fifth embodiment has a group information DB12 and a platform providing unit 8 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 1. The group information DB12 stores information on a group bulletin board, which is a bulletin board on which the learning progress of each learner 90 is recorded, for each group to which the matched learners 90 belong. The platform providing unit 8 provides the group bulletin board stored for each group by the group information DB12 in a viewable state to the multiple learners 90 of the same group. Furthermore, when a comment is posted by a learner 90 in the same group on the group bulletin board that has been made viewable within the group, the platform providing unit 8 makes the posted comment viewable. Furthermore, the platform providing unit 8 may attach the learning results of each learner 90 in the group to the bulletin board.

[0105] When the platform providing unit 8 receives a request for a group bulletin board from the information processing terminal 30 of the learner 90, it creates an image 91 shown in Fig. 17 and transmits data of the created image 91 to the information processing terminal 30. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of an image of the group bulletin board displayed on the information processing terminal operated by the learner. The information processing terminal 30 displays the image 91 shown in Fig. 17 on the display 34.

[0106] Here, a case will be described in which image 91 is displayed when a learner with learner number 001 operates information processing terminal 30 to access a link destination posted on his / her own web page. In the following, learner with learner number 001 will be referred to as "Mr. Toad." As shown in FIG. 17, image 91 on the group bulletin board displays, for each learner, a learning progress 92, a comment column 93, and a current activity display column 94. "Princess Apple" is the nickname of another learner who belongs to the same group as Mr. Toad.

[0107] The learning progress 92 displays the learning progress of the target learner. For example, referring to FIG. 17, it is displayed that Mr. Toad has attended approximately 40% of the lectures in the entire first-stage preparation course. The current activity display field 94 displays the current activity of the target learner. The image 91 shown in FIG. 17 indicates that Mr. Toad is working on exercises, and that Princess Apple is taking the first-stage preparation course. In this way, a progress tracking function that visualizes the learning progress and activity status of the learner is realized.

[0108] The comment field 93 displays comments to the target learner input by other learners via the information processing terminal 30. In the comment field 93 in FIG. 17, comments encouraging Mr. Toad to maintain his learning pace are written by other learners. The comment may be input by selecting from a plurality of fixed phrases, or by freely writing. In addition, in Ms. Apple's learning progress 92, stamps 95 input by other learners via the information processing terminal 30 are added to Ms. Apple's progress in the exercises. The stamps 95 are stamps that indicate praise. In this way, feedback is given to each learner's achievements by comments or stamps from other learners.

[0109] The matching system 1c of the fifth embodiment uses a progress tracking function to track the learning progress and activity status of each learner, and visualizes the results of each learner within the group. This allows learners to encourage each other by seeing the progress of other learners. In addition, the matching system 1c also visualizes the content of the feedback when learners give each other positive feedback on their results. Encouragement and praise from other learners leads to increased motivation to learn for the learners. In this way, motivation to learn can be increased through positive words and mutual encouragement. A habit of encouraging each other with peers studying together in the same group can be created.

[0110] According to the fifth embodiment, by seeing the learning progress of other matched learners, each learner is encouraged to study and his / her motivation to study increases. Also, when other learners post comments on his / her learning progress, the learner recognizes that his / her learning progress is being seen by other learners, and his / her motivation to study is maintained. Furthermore, when the comments posted by other learners are positive comments, the learner's motivation to study increases. EXAMPLES

[0111] In the sixth embodiment, learners who have been matched by the present embodiment cooperate with each other to share their motivation to learn. For example, an environment is provided where matched learners can hold study sessions on the web at any time.

[0112] The configuration of a matching system according to a sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15. In the sixth embodiment, a configuration different from the configurations described in the first to fifth embodiments will be described, and a detailed description of the configuration similar to the first to fifth embodiments will be omitted.

[0113] 1, the matching system 1c of the sixth embodiment has a group information DB 12 and a platform providing unit 8. The group information DB 12 stores management information in which information on the multiple learners 90 belonging to each group to which the matched learners 90 belong is registered.

[0114] When a request for holding a study session is input from any learner 90, the platform providing unit 8 identifies learners 90 who belong to the same group as the requesting learner 90 using management information, and notifies the other identified learners 90 of the holding of the study session. The platform providing unit 8 provides a communication environment that enables multiple learners 90 who belong to the same group to send and receive audio or text data via a network. The platform providing unit 8 may display video data of the face of the learner 90, captured by the camera 31 of each information processing terminal 30, on the display 34 of the information processing terminal 30 of the other learners 90.

[0115] Next, the operation of the matching system 1c of Example 6 will be described with reference to FIG. 18. FIG. 18 is a sequence diagram showing the operation procedure of the matching system and the information processing terminal of Example 6. For simplicity of explanation, the case will be described in which three learners, learners 90a to 90c, are matched by this embodiment. The learners 90a to 90c belong to the same group. The information processing terminal 30 operated by the learner 90a is defined as the information processing terminal 30a. The information processing terminal 30 operated by the learner 90b is defined as the information processing terminal 30b. The information processing terminal 30 operated by the learner 90c is defined as the information processing terminal 30c.

[0116] In step S301, when the learner 90a inputs a request to hold a study session into the information processing terminal 30a, the information processing terminal 30a transmits the request to hold a study session to the matching system 1c. In step S302, when the request to hold a study session is input from the information processing terminal 30a, the platform providing unit 8 identifies the learners 90b and 90c who belong to the same group as the learner 90a of the information processing terminal 30a by management information.

[0117] In step S303, the platform providing unit 8 transmits information about the study group to the information processing terminals 30b and 30c in order to notify the identified learners 90b and 90c of the study group. At that time, the platform providing unit 8 may also transmit information about the study group to the information processing terminal 30a in order to notify the person who requested the study group of the decision to hold the study group. The information about the study group includes the date, start time, and end time when the study group is to be held, and information about a link to a communication environment that enables communication of image, audio, and text data within the group.

[0118] In step S304, when the date and time of the study group arrives, each of the learners 90a to 90c connects their own information processing terminal 30 to the link destination. As a result, each of the learners 90a to 90c becomes capable of exchanging information online via the information processing terminals 30a to 30c, and the study group begins.

[0119] The matching system 1c of the sixth embodiment provides an environment in which each of the matched learners can immediately contact other learners and get together whenever they want to hold a study session within the group. By cooperating with each other within the group, the learners can learn while sharing their motivation to learn with each other. The matching system 1c can continuously manage joint projects such as study sessions within the group and provide an environment in which joint projects can be carried out.

[0120] According to the sixth embodiment, matched learners can hold study sessions on the web at any time. Therefore, even learners taking correspondence courses can share their motivation to learn with other learners and improve their academic ability. EXAMPLES

[0121] In Example 7, learners who have been matched by this embodiment teach other learners what they have learned, creating a relationship in which they can encourage each other. For example, learners who are making progress in their studies and those who are lagging behind in their studies are matched within a group, and the learners can teach each other.

[0122] The configuration of a matching system according to a seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15. In the seventh embodiment, a configuration different from the configurations described in the first to sixth embodiments will be described, and a detailed description of the configuration similar to the first to sixth embodiments will be omitted.

[0123] 1, the matching system 1c of the seventh embodiment has a group information DB 12 and a platform providing unit 8. The group information DB 12 stores management information in which information on the multiple learners 90 belonging to each group to which the matched learners 90 belong is registered.

[0124] When a question about the learning subject is input from any learner 90, the platform providing unit 8 identifies learners 90 belonging to the same group as the questioner using management information, and solicits from the identified other learners 90 those who can answer the question. When the platform providing unit 8 receives information of application from a learner 90 belonging to the same group as the questioner, it provides the questioner and the applicant with a communication environment that enables them to transmit and receive voice or text data via a network. The platform providing unit 8 may display video data of the face of the learner 90, captured by the camera 31 of each information processing terminal 30, on the display 34 of the information processing terminal 30 of the other learners 90.

[0125] Next, the operation of the matching system 1c of the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 19. FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram showing the operation procedure of the matching system and the information processing terminal of the seventh embodiment. For simplicity of explanation, the case will be described in which three learners, learners 90a to 90c, are matched by this embodiment. The learners 90a to 90c belong to the same group. The information processing terminal 30 operated by the learner 90a is defined as the information processing terminal 30a. The information processing terminal 30 operated by the learner 90b is defined as the information processing terminal 30b. The information processing terminal 30 operated by the learner 90c is defined as the information processing terminal 30c.

[0126] In step S401, when the learner 90a inputs a question to the information processing terminal 30a, the information processing terminal 30a transmits the input question to the matching system 1c. Although omitted in the image 81 shown in FIG. 11, an input field for receiving questions is provided in advance on each learner's personal page. In step S402, when a question is input from the information processing terminal 30a, the platform providing unit 8 identifies learners 90b and 90c who belong to the same group as the learner 90a of the information processing terminal 30a by management information.

[0127] In step S403, the platform providing unit 8 transmits recruitment information including the questions and information to the effect that answerers are being recruited to the information processing terminals 30b and 30c in order to recruit answerers for the questions. Upon receiving the recruitment information from the matching system 1c, each of the information processing terminals 30b and 30c displays the recruitment information on the display 34. In step S404, when the learner 90c inputs an application to be an answerer to the information processing terminal 30c, the information processing terminal 30c transmits application information indicating the application to the matching system 1c.

[0128] In step S405, when the platform providing unit 8 receives the application information from the information processing terminal 30c, it transmits communication environment information to the information processing terminals 30a and 30c to enable information exchange between the learners 90a and 90c. The communication environment information includes information on a link to a communication environment that enables communication of image, audio, and text data between the learners 90a and 90c.

[0129] In step S406, each of the learners 90a and 90c connects their own information processing terminals 30 to the link destination. This allows the learner 90a to exchange information with the other person online via the information processing terminal 30a, and the learner 90c to exchange information online via the information processing terminal 30c. The learner 90c explains the answers to the questions to the learner 90a, for example, by voice. Since the learner 90a is in a state where they can exchange information online, he may ask further questions to the learner 90c, and can obtain answers to the new questions from the learner 90c in real time.

[0130] The matching system 1c of the seventh embodiment realizes matching teaching in which learners in a group teach each other, thereby creating a relationship in which the learners can encourage each other. For example, it matches people who are making progress in their learning with people who are lagging behind. By teaching other learners, learners who are making progress in their learning can not only impart knowledge and skills to other learners, but also deepen their own understanding. As a result, both the learners and others can increase their motivation to learn.

[0131] According to the seventh embodiment, among the matched learners, for example, those who are making progress in their learning are matched with those who are lagging behind in their learning, and a relationship is created in which the learners can encourage each other. Those who are making progress in their learning can deepen their own understanding by teaching others. Those who are making progress in their learning can not only increase the learning motivation of others by imparting their knowledge or skills to others, but also increase their own learning motivation.

[0132] In the above-mentioned Examples 1 to 7, it is desirable to maintain a positive atmosphere among the matched learners. Specifically, each learner strives to keep making positive comments in order to maintain the learning motivation of the group. This will maintain the learning motivation of the matched learners and improve their grades.

[0133] The above-described embodiments are illustrative examples of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention to these embodiments. Those skilled in the art can implement the present invention in various other forms without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0134] The above-described embodiment includes the following features. However, the features included in the embodiment are not limited to the following features.

[0135] (Item 1) a commonality determination unit for determining commonality of learning goals and interests between learners; an individual assessment unit for identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each learner; a complementarity determination unit for determining complementarity of strengths and weaknesses between learners; a matching unit that comprehensively determines matching between learners based on the results of the commonality determination and the results of the complementarity determination; A matching system having

[0136] According to this system, learners are matched with other learners who have a lot in common with them and whose strengths and weaknesses are complementary. This not only enables learners to maintain their motivation to study, but also makes it easier for them to find study buddies who can improve their weaknesses. As a result, learners' grades improve by studying with other matched learners.

[0137] (Item 2) A storage unit that stores performance information for each learner, the performance information being information on a plurality of indices related to learning; a grade disclosure unit that obtains a ranking of the matched learners for one of the plurality of indicators and provides the obtained ranking to the plurality of learners in a viewable state; 2. The matching system according to item 1, comprising:

[0138] This allows matched learners to compete with each other on learning-related indicators, thereby increasing their motivation to study.

[0139] (Item 3) The grade disclosure department: referring to the performance information, determining, for each of the plurality of learners, an index from the plurality of indexes that will give the learner a higher ranking than a predetermined ranking, and providing the plurality of learners with a viewable ranking of the plurality of learners for each of the determined indexes; Item 2. A matching system according to item 2.

[0140] This allows each of the multiple matched learners to see themselves ranked high, which increases their motivation to study.

[0141] (Item 4) a platform providing unit that connects the information processing terminals of the matched learners via a network and provides a communication environment that enables the learners to exchange information; The matching system according to any one of items 1 to 3, comprising:

[0142] According to this system, matched learners can get together and exchange information, thereby understanding each other's personalities and enhancing a sense of camaraderie.

[0143] (Item 5) a storage unit for storing content including learning materials and / or notes studied by each learner for each group to which the matched learners belong; a platform providing unit that provides the content stored for each group by the storage unit in a viewable state to a plurality of learners of the same group; 5. The matching system according to any one of items 1 to 4, comprising:

[0144] This allows matched learners to share the learning materials and / or notes they used, allowing them to learn from each other's learning methods and improve their own.

[0145] (Item 6) The platform providing unit is If a question is written in the note of the content, inputting the question into an artificial intelligence unit, thereby obtaining an answer to the question from the artificial intelligence unit; making the questions and the answers available for viewing and providing them to the plurality of learners of the same group; Item 5. A matching system according to item 5.

[0146] This allows a learner to save a notebook containing questions in a memory unit, so that not only that learner but also other learners in the same group can read the answers to their questions, improving the learning efficiency of the entire group.

[0147] (Item 7) a storage unit that stores bulletin board information on which the learning progress of each learner is recorded for each group to which the matched learners belong; a platform providing unit that provides the bulletin boards stored for each group by the storage unit in a viewable state to a plurality of learners of the same group; 7. The matching system according to any one of items 1 to 6, comprising:

[0148] In this way, each of the multiple matched learners is encouraged to study by seeing the learning progress of the other learners in the same group, thereby increasing their motivation to study.

[0149] (Item 8) The platform providing unit is when a comment and / or stamp is input from the learner of the same group via an information processing terminal with respect to the learning progress of another learner posted on the bulletin board, the input comment and / or stamp is displayed on the bulletin board; Item 7. A matching system according to item 7.

[0150] This allows matched learners to comment and / or stamp on each other's learning progress. Each learner can get feedback from other learners on their own learning progress, which increases their motivation to study.

[0151] (Item 9) a storage unit that stores management information in which information about the plurality of learners belonging to each group is registered for each group to which the plurality of matched learners belong; a platform providing unit that, when a request for holding a study session is input by any one of the plurality of learners, identifies learners who belong to the same group as the learner who made the request from the management information and notifies the identified other learners of the holding of the study session; 9. The matching system according to any one of items 1 to 8, comprising:

[0152] This allows matched learners to hold online study sessions at any time, so even those taking correspondence courses can share their motivation to learn with other learners and improve their academic ability.

[0153] (Item 10) a storage unit that stores management information in which information about the plurality of learners belonging to each group is registered for each group to which the plurality of matched learners belong; A platform providing unit, The platform providing unit is When a question about a learning subject is input by a learner, other learners who belong to the same group as the questioner are identified using the management information, and answerers who can answer the question are recruited from the identified other learners. when receiving information of an application from a learner belonging to the same group as the inquirer, providing the inquirer and the applicant with a communication environment enabling them to transmit and receive voice or text data via a network; 10. A matching system according to any one of items 1 to 9.

[0154] This allows matchmaking between learners who are making progress in their studies and those who are lagging behind, creating a relationship in which the learners can encourage each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0155] 1, 1a-1c matching system, 2 commonality judgment unit, 3 individual judgment unit, 4 complementarity judgment unit, 5 matching unit, 7 grade disclosure unit, 8 platform provision unit, 11 learner information DB, 12 group information DB, 21 processor, 22 main memory, 23 storage device, 24 communication device, 25 input device, 26 display device, 27 bus, 30, 30a-30c information processing terminal, 31 camera, 32 microphone, 33 speaker, 34 display, 35 browser, 90 learner.

Claims

1. a commonality determination unit for determining commonality of learning goals and interests between learners; an individual assessment unit for identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each learner; a complementarity determination unit for determining complementarity of strengths and weaknesses between learners; a matching unit that comprehensively determines matching between learners based on the results of the commonality determination and the results of the complementarity determination; A storage unit that stores performance information for each learner, the performance information being information on a plurality of indices related to learning; a grade disclosure unit that obtains a ranking of the matched learners for one of the plurality of indicators and provides the obtained ranking to the plurality of learners in a viewable state; having The grade disclosure department: referring to the performance information, determining, for each of the plurality of learners, an index from the plurality of indexes that will give the learner a higher ranking than a predetermined ranking, and providing the plurality of learners with a viewable ranking of the plurality of learners for each of the determined indexes; Matching system.

2. The system further includes a platform providing unit that connects the information processing terminals of the matched learners via a network and provides the learners with a communication environment that enables them to exchange information. The matching system according to claim 1 .

3. A commonality determination unit that determines commonality of learning goals and interests between learners; an individual assessment unit for identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each learner; a complementarity determination unit for determining complementarity of strengths and weaknesses between learners; a matching unit that comprehensively determines matching between learners based on the results of the commonality determination and the results of the complementarity determination; a storage unit for storing content including learning materials and / or notes studied by each learner for each group to which the matched learners belong; a platform providing unit that provides the content stored for each group by the storage unit in a viewable state to a plurality of learners of the same group; having The platform providing unit is If a question is written in the note of the content, inputting the question into an artificial intelligence unit, thereby obtaining an answer to the question from the artificial intelligence unit; making the questions and the answers available for viewing and providing them to the plurality of learners of the same group; Matching system.

4. The storage unit stores, for each group to which the matched learners belong, information on a bulletin board on which the learning progress of each learner is recorded, a platform providing unit that provides the bulletin boards stored for each group by the storage unit in a viewable state to a plurality of learners of the same group; The matching system according to claim 1 .

5. The platform providing unit is when a comment and / or a stamp is input from the learner of the same group via an information processing terminal with respect to the learning progress of the other learners posted on the bulletin board, the input comment and / or the stamp is displayed on the bulletin board; The matching system according to claim 4.

6. The storage unit stores management information in which information about the multiple learners belonging to each group is registered for each group to which the multiple matched learners belong, a platform providing unit that, when a request for holding a study session is input from any one of the plurality of learners, identifies learners who belong to the same group as the learner who made the request from the management information, and notifies the identified other learners of the holding of the study session; The matching system according to claim 1 .

7. The storage unit stores management information in which information about the multiple learners belonging to each group is registered for each group to which the multiple matched learners belong, It further has a platform providing unit, The platform providing unit is When a question about a learning subject is input by a learner, other learners who belong to the same group as the questioner are identified using the management information, and answerers who can answer the question are recruited from the identified other learners. when receiving information of an application from a learner belonging to the same group as the inquirer, providing the inquirer and the applicant with a communication environment enabling them to transmit and receive voice or text data via a network; The matching system according to claim 1 .

8. A matching method executed by an information processing device, comprising: For each learner, record information, which is information on a plurality of learning indicators, Determine commonalities of learning goals and interests among learners; Identify the strengths and weaknesses of each learner; Determine the complementarity of strengths and weaknesses among learners; determining a match between the learners comprehensively based on the results of the commonality determination and the results of the complementarity determination; determining a ranking of the matched learners for one of the plurality of indicators, and providing the determined ranking to the plurality of learners in a viewable state; when providing the obtained rankings in a viewable state, referring to the performance information, for each of the plurality of learners, an index that will give the learner a higher ranking than a predetermined ranking is obtained from the plurality of indexes, and the rankings of the plurality of learners for each obtained index are provided to the plurality of learners in a viewable state. Matching method.

9. A matching method executed by an information processing device, comprising: Determine commonalities of learning goals and interests among learners; Identify the strengths and weaknesses of each learner; Determine the complementarity of strengths and weaknesses among learners; determining a match between the learners comprehensively based on the results of the commonality determination and the results of the complementarity determination; storing content including the learning materials and / or notes studied by each learner for each group to which the matched learners belong; providing the content stored for each group to a plurality of learners of the same group in a viewable state; When providing the content in a viewable state, if questions are written in the notes of the content, inputting the questions into an artificial intelligence unit to obtain answers to the questions from the artificial intelligence unit; making the questions and the answers available for viewing and providing them to the plurality of learners of the same group; Matching method.

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