An Approach to Intelligent Information Handling in Web-based Learning Environments

This paper discusses an integrated approach to information handling and knowledge management in web-based open-ended learning environments. It supports both learners and instructors in information structuring and taskoriented processing and usage. AIMS, a web-based intelligent tool for task-based information and performance support is implemented to exemplify the theoretical assumptions of this approach. AIMS focuses on three important aspects of the information handling process information structuring, information visualization, and user centered approach. We employ concept maps (CM) to build a subject domain ontology and use it as a basis for defining course structures. The domain CM is also used for attractive non-linear visualization and conceptual graphical navigation of the subject domain and the search results, thus allowing for more efficient information searches. In order to provide appropriate adaptation to the individual information needs and preferences of the learners AIMS models