SHARP Online: an adaptive hypermedia system applied to mathematical problem solving

Abstract

In this article we present the development of a web application called SHARPOnline: An Adaptive Hypermedia System Applied to Mathematical Problem Solving. The pedagogical basis of this application is found in the support techniques for heuristic learning in mathematical problem solving developed according to the Schoenfeld model. The adaptivity ofthis tool is achieved by way of the utilization of an adaptive algorithm which has been developed for it and is described in this article. This algorithm implements mechanisms thatmake it possible for the user to construct mathematical knowledge adaptively using training methods. This application also provides the teacher with the following complete set of tools formanaging the entire process: the inclusion of contents through a collaborative application withsupport; a shared work space; the adaptivity of the algorithm variables; and the supervision of the students progress, etc. through specific modules. This application was originally developed for educational contexts in the area of teaching mathematics, and therefore includes a module for editing and visualizing mathematical formulas for a Web environment.