ITS + SBT: A Review of Operational Situated Tutors

Abstract

Situated tutors combine features of intelligent tutoring systems with simulated environments. A construct definition for situated tutors was newly developed, and, in this article, we use it to classify an extensive review of operational instructional technologies in order to identify a robust set of situated tutors. We document 86 situated tutors, half of which directly support military training. Initial empirical evidence from these systems suggests that situated tutors may outperform traditional simulations or intelligent tutors. As additional evidence is gathered, we hypothesize that situated tutors will also demonstrate efficiency and effectiveness in cognitive readiness instruction.

Adaptive Perceptual Training in a Virtual Environment

“…Further, these features are, at least, loosely federated with each other. (Schatz, et al, 2012) Situated tutors include intelligent tutoring features, such as automation, adaptation, well-articulated instructional material, instructional strategies, and direct feedback. These features are combined with elements common to instructional simulations, specifically, a situated learning environment, support for multiple concurrent users, support for open-ended domains, and "natural" cause-and-effect feedback within the simulated context.…”

“…These features are combined with elements common to instructional simulations, specifically, a situated learning environment, support for multiple concurrent users, support for open-ended domains, and "natural" cause-and-effect feedback within the simulated context. Theoretically, well-designed situated tutors may be even more efficacious than traditional adaptive in-structional systems, especially for instruction on higher-order cognition (Schatz et al, 2012)…”

“…Schatz and colleagues have challenged the research community to "clearly document the categorical types of intrinsic adaptation, their best uses, and potential pitfalls to avoid" (Schatz et al, 2012). The remainder of this paper partially addresses this call by describing a new advanced situated tutor with dynamic tailoring, currently under development.…”