Adaptive Question Scheduling to Prevent Learning Backlog
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing learning support systems face a challenge in maintaining learner motivation due to a backlog of questions when studying is resumed after a break, leading to a significant reduction in learning motivation.
Innovation Solution
A learning support system that includes a question storage unit, question interval determination unit, question frequency adjustment unit, and question submission unit to manage question intervals and frequencies, using the Ebbinghaus' forgetting curve and adjusting intervals based on learning need and priority, with features to postpone or advance question submission to maintain motivation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the learning support system continuously submits questions based on the forgetting curve, then knowledge retention is improved, but the number of questions per day increases excessively causing learner burnout
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the question submission interval by changing the parameter of time interval based on learner performance. When the learner answers correctly, the interval is extended; when incorrect, the interval is shortened. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by reducing question frequency when retention is achieved while maintaining high frequency when learning is needed, preventing burnout while ensuring knowledge retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The question submission schedule transitions from a static fixed interval to a dynamic adaptive interval that automatically adjusts based on learner responses. The system continuously modifies the submission timing in real-time, making the learning process flexible and responsive to learner state, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining retention and avoiding excessive workload.
2Ease of operation
If the learner takes a break from studying, then motivation is maintained, but a massive backlog of questions accumulates that reduces motivation upon resumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculation of the question backlog that would accumulate during the break period based on the forgetting curve and individual question intervals. Before the learner resumes, the system has already determined the adjusted submission schedule that accounts for the missed questions, preventing the shock of a massive backlog and maintaining motivation.
Solution Approach 2:
The question submission system dynamically adapts to the learner's resumed state by recalculating intervals and distributing backlog questions over an extended period rather than presenting them all at once. This dynamic adjustment prevents motivation loss while ensuring continuous learning progress.
3Productivity
If all questions are submitted at once upon resuming learning, then the backlog is cleared efficiently, but learner motivation significantly decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the backlog of questions into smaller batches distributed over multiple days rather than presenting them all at once. Each batch is carefully calculated based on the forgetting curve and learner capacity, allowing efficient backlog clearance while maintaining motivation through manageable portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The backlog clearance follows a periodic schedule with intervals between question submissions, rather than a continuous flood of questions. This periodic action allows the learner to process questions at a sustainable pace while systematically working through the backlog, maintaining motivation through regular, manageable intervals.
Data Source
AI summary
A learning support system 10 includes: a question storage unit 12 in which a plurality of questions for a learner 4 to acquire knowledge and answers respectively corresponding to the plurality of questions are registered; a question interval determination unit 14 configured to determine, in determining a date and time for submitting each of the plurality of questions, a question interval such that an effect of learning by the learner 4 is enhanced; a question submission unit 18 configured to submit each of the questions to the learner 4, based on the question interval determined by the question interval determination unit 14; and a question frequency adjustment unit 16 configured to lengthen the question interval to postpone submission if a number of questions per day submitted by the question submission unit 18 exceeds a predetermined upper limit.