Context-aware recommendation algorithms for the percepolis personalized education platform

This paper describes Pervasive Cyberinfrastructure for Personalized Learning and Instructional Support (PERCEPOLIS), where context-aware recommendation algorithms facilitate personalized learning and instruction. Fundamental to PERCEPOLIS are (a) modular course development and offering, which increase the resolution of the curriculum and allow for finer-grained personalization of learning artifacts and associated data collection; (b) blended learning, which allows class time to be used for active learning, interactive problem solving and reflective instructional tasks; and (c) networked curricula, in which the components form a cohesive and strongly interconnected whole where learning in one area reinforces and supports learning in other areas. Intelligent software agents customize the content of a course for each learner, based on his or her academic profile and interests, aided by context-based recommendation algorithms. This paper provides an introduction to the PERCEPOLIS platform, with focus on these algorithms; and describes the educational research that underpins its design.