The innovation of this SBIR Phase I is the development of an Auto-adaptive cognitive Learning Engine (ALE) that can assess a learner's level of knowledge comprehension and retention, and then appropriately change assistance in concept areas where the learner is having difficulties. Thus, ALE enhanced Web-based Distance Learning Systems (WDSs) provide organizations like the Military with a cost-effective tool for maximizing knowledge comprehension and retention, while simultaneously reducing time and cost spent on medical (and other skilled) staff training. The cognitive strategies and algorithms developed as part of Viatec Research's Auto-adaptive Learning (AL) solution are based on an extension of the rule-base theory and traditional concept-mapping. However, the solution's quantitative nature, and ability to measure the degree of learner understanding are novel and represent a leading-edge approach to the issue of automated knowledge assessment for WDSs. A proof-of-concept prototype of the ALE will be incorporated into a WDS to demonstrate technical feasibility, user benefits, and commercial marketability and to make recommendations Phase II. Also in Phase I, Viatec will review JSOMTC, etc medical training packages and SOF medical personnel training requirements and cognitive abilities to identify candidate areas and means for adaptation to cognitive learning strategies in a net-based product.Autonomous market research indicates that the market for web-based learning technologies is relatively new and has the potential for tremendous growth. The Annual Industry Report of 1996 by Lakewood Research assessed corporate training and estimated the technology portion of this market at $ 7.6 billion in 1995-96 and projected a real growth rate of 9% per annum. A Dataquest study looked directly at multimedia technology in educational settings (both corporate and institutional) assessed the market for educational technologies as $16.6 billion in 1996 with a growth rate approaching 14%. Finally, a forecasting model of the Adaptive Learning Systems markets developed by Nathan Associates predicted sales of instructional software and systems would range between $25.8 and 42.2 billion by conservative estimates. More optimistic projections indicate that educational technologies may grow to as much as $142.9 billion by 2005.
Keywords: Web, Cognitive Learning, Medical Training, Education
