Web-based distance learning is becoming increasingly prevalent as the Internet permeates every aspect of our culture, and many educational content management systems are now in use on the web. However, learners' experiences of these systems are almost invariably static, with information being delivered regardless of their background or knowledge. Due to variation between learners', it is suggested that these web-based distancelearning systems would benefit from the capability of adapting their content to meet individual needs. To effectively implement this adaptation of educational material, we require a user model that supplies the system with information about the learners using the system, such as their backgrounds, knowledge, interests and learning styles. This paper focuses on presenting a user model that combines the advantages of two techniques (overlay and stereotyping) in a way that provides the system with the ability to deliver information that is fully informed by the requirements of individual users.
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