Paper Title, Authors, Abstract (Issue 1, Volume 4, 2010)

Pages

Tools of Electronic Communication and Evaluation of Personalized Medical Education in Adaptive Educational Environment
Athina Lazakidou, Georgia Lazakidou-Kafetzi, Konstantinos Siassiakos

Abstract: Medical education is by its nature a complicated educational process that requires not only the transfer of a huge amount of scientific knowledge but also the creation of appropriate conditions in order that students can develop the associated clinical skills. Respectively, the evaluation –as a part of the educational- process is a complicated matter that should take into account the growing increased curricular requirements as well as the students’ individuality. This study aims to stress the potentiality of facilitating students’ evaluation through Adaptive Educational Systems by proposing such one with an emphasis on its pedagogic model. As it is proposed an instructor can create tests to track the students’ learning progress and specify the associated rules. Its content can be adapted to the personalized learning characteristics of medical students while supporting them to realize their cognitive strengths and weaknesses. This characteristic transforms it into a valuable tool for self-directed learning models that fit to the adult students of medical education and make them responsible for their own learning progress.
 

New E-Learning Objects for the Mathematics Courses from Engineering Degrees: Design and Implementation of Question Banks in Maple T.A. using LaTeX
Rui M. S. Pereira, Irene Brito, Gaspar Q. Machado, Teresa Malheiro, Estelita Vaz, Maria Flores, Jorge Figueiredo, Paulo Pereira, Ana Jesus

Abstract: RMathematics at an undergraduate level is frequently presented to the students in quite a traditional way. When implementing the Bologna education reform in Portuguese universities, the number of contact hours of the courses decreased (considerably in some cases), therefore increasing the need of a more self-responsible learning by the student. This means that the student has to work by himself (i.e., outside lectures and examples classes) on a regular basis. In practice this implies that the lecturer is supposed to plan the students work, in principle weekly basis. In this paper we intend to describe an experience made at the Department of Mathematics for Science and Technology of the University of Minho in Portugal. Using an e-learning platform specially designed for teaching Mathematics called Maple T. A., we designed, programmed and made available for the students various sets of exercises organized in Question Banks on the course of Calculus. We also make a comparison of alternative ways to program the questions of a questions bank. The advantage of this platform is that if properly designed, the questions can be always different and with different methods of solving (because of the use of random variables), the student can do it whenever and wherever he is (he does it via internet) and it feedback is made available to the students as soon as he submits the exercise. At the end of the academic year and with the aim of being able to evaluate how did the students feel about this experience, the students were given a survey implemented on the e-learning platform. The results obtained from this survey strongly suggest, among other things, that using Maple T.A. helped the students in the study of the course of Calculus, and that it helped to achieve better results on the course.
 

Comparing Virtual Classroom, Game-Based Learning and Storytelling Teachings in e-Learning
Khaled Ayad, Dimitrios Rigas

Abstract: E-learning is a sophisticated computerised learning issue that requires exploration from many points of views. It involves various domains, such as social, emotional, psychological, and other related areas. In this work a multi edutainment platforms were evaluated in order to explore usability aspects of edutainment in elearning. These three platforms were Virtual classroom, Game-based and Storytelling. Entertainment features represented by speech, avatars with graphics and game activity was combined in these three different platforms. Moreover earcons were incorporated to help users resolve problems given efficiently and quickly. A dependent group was used to measure users‘ performance in terms of user achievement, correct answers and satisfaction. The experimental results collected indicated that the Game-based approach was the best in terms of users‘ achievement effectiveness as well as satisfaction with the interface and overall learning experience.
 

Multimodal Metaphors in e-Learning Note-Taking
Mohamed Sallam, Dimitrios Rigas

Abstract: This paper introduces an empirical study conducted to investigate the use and effect of multimodal metaphors in e-learning applications. This investigation involved two different interface platforms performed by forty users. The first interface platform (textual interface), based on three input modalities, namely text, graphic, and speech, was used to deliver information about note-taking. The second platform interface (multimodal interface) was based on five input modalities, including; text, graphic, speech, avatar and earcons to deliver the same information. The aim of the experiment was to measure and compare the level of usability of textual and multimodal interfaces. The usability parameters, which are efficiency, effectiveness, and users’ satisfaction, were considered in the experiment. The results obtained from this investigation have shown that the multimodal e-learning interface increased the level of usability as users took significantly less time to complete the tasks, performed successfully in a higher number of tasks, and were more satisfied than when using the textual interface. Also, the results indicate that users most preferred the avatar as choice of input modality, while earcons were the second most preferred option for representing information. These input modalities could be used to improve the attractiveness of note taking which in turn will be reflected in increasing users’ motivation and interest in the presented learning material.
 

A Controllability and Customisation Approach to Personalised Web Content
Dimitrios Rigas, Khalid Al-Omar

Abstract: This paper reports an empirical study which investigated the controllability and customisation of four interactive conditions: static, adaptive, adaptable and mixed-initiative. Each of these conditions was implemented separately as a web-based e-commerce application. These environments were tested independently by four separate groups, each consisting of 15 users. Results show that the mixed-initiative condition was the best in terms of controllability. In addition, surprisingly, subjects who used the adaptive condition were found to have a similar level of control to those using the static condition.
 

A User Satisfaction Approach to Multimodal Interfaces for Note-Taking
Dimitrios Rigas, Mohamed Sallam

Abstract: The comparative study described in this paper to investigate the use of multimodal metaphors in interface of e-learning application. The primary focus is to present and discuss the experimental results related to users’ views and evaluation of individual avatar and recording video used in the experimental e-learning tools. This investigation involved two different interface versions of the experimental e-learning tool. The first interface platform (the textual interface) was based on three input modalities, namely text, graphics, and images and was used to deliver information about note-taking. The second experimental platform developed for this investigation was based on visual and auditory metaphors. This platform interface (the multimodal interface) consisted of the three input modalities as well, including; speech, video, and avatar to deliver the same information. This was in a different type of windows for example login, select, optional menu, and assists or word help. The aim of this study is to provide a general guideline for Learning Software developers to help developing multimodal interfaces in order to enhance software usability and provide more information in learning interfaces. The results obtained from this investigation have shown that the multimodal e-learning interface increased the level of usability as users took significantly less time to complete the given tasks, performed successfully in a higher number of tasks and were more satisfied than when using the textual interface. Also, the results indicate that users much preferred the video as a choice of input modality, while avatar was the second most preferred option for representing information. These input modalities could be used to improve the appeal of note taking which in turn will be reflected in increasing users’ motivation and interest in the presented learning material.
 

    Paper Title, Authors, Abstract (Issue 2, Volume 4, 2010)

Pages

Design of Adaptive E-Learning for Logic Operations
Ahmed A. Saleh, Hazem M. El-Bakry, Taghreed T. Asfour

Abstract: Over the last decade, the concept of e-learning has become an important topic. E-learning today gives the student a central role in his/her own learning process. It allows students to try things out, participate in courses, tests and simulations like never before, and get more out of learning than before. In this paper, an adaptive e-learning environment for logic gates, simplification of Boolean functions and related fields is presented. The presented model generates suitable courses for each student in a dynamic form. The proposed environment is designed by integrating visual basic, flash and other effective tools. The contributions of this paper are supporting adaptive e-learning environment to improve learning and an evaluation of its use in context.
 

Exploring Polar Equations With Interactive Spreadsheets
Andriy Didenko, David Allison, Gary Miller

Abstract: Students who are studying calculus often find the graphing of polar equations difficult and time consuming. Microsoft Excel is a helpful software tool for the teaching of mathematics, and can be used to generate dynamic spreadsheets specifically designed to make mathematical tasks more instructive as well as visually stimulating for students. A dynamic spreadsheet presentation can help students better appreciate how a graph is produced from the relationship between the polar coordinates.
 

Entertaining Users through Multi-Modal Game Based Learning
Khaled Ayad, Dimitrios Rigas

Abstract: Game based learning is used today to engage and to teach children in primary or secondary education level, as well as learners in higher and advanced stages. The process of developing an excellent game that engages users and lets the player discover new structure bearing in mind pedagogical factors associated with different types of game design is not an easy issue. Therefore this study aims to investigate the role of game within multi-modal context in improving users’ attention and interest in e-learning environment. The study evaluated four multi-modal interfaces constructed to be edutainment platforms. The multi-modal features such as speech, earcons and avatars were incorporated to enrich the gaming environment with entertainment elements which is necessary to make the users satisfied with the level of interaction. These four games based-learning interfaces were designed and built each with disparate multi- modal attributes. The first game was introduced with text and speech only (TS); the second was with text and earcons only (TE); the third game integrated with text, speech and earcons (TSE); finally the fourth game was with text, speech, earcons and avatar (TSEA). The usability attributes represented in user achievement and user satisfaction were measured within each game. Users showed significant enhancement on their performance and expressed their positive sensation during and after their experimental session. Furthermore TSEA was the preferable condition compared to the other platforms.
 

Investigating the Moderating and Mediating Effects of Dysfunctional Attitudes and Self-Esteem on the Relationship between Social Support and Depression among Late Adolescents in Klang Valley Malaysia: A Moderated Mediation Model
Sau-Keng Cheng, Fatimah Yusooff

Abstract: Seeing that the interdependence between adolescent depression and impairments in psychosocial functioning is conspicuous and evident, scrutiny on social support and cognition is a sine qua non of stimulating the psychological well-being amongst adolescents, expressly those in the stage of late adolescence who are discerned at higher risk of getting depressed. Hence, the moderated mediation model in the present investigation has been instigated to appraise the moderating and mediating effects of dysfunctional attitudes and self-esteem on the one-way relationship between social support and depression in late adolescence. Prior to this inspection, a pilot test has already been orchestrated to examine and ensure satisfactory psychometric properties of the assessment tool employed. A set of questionnaire encompassing self-report Interpersonal Support Evaluation List, Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale, Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale and Beck Depression Inventory were manoeuvred in a sample of 522 late adolescents taken from two local secondary schools and a university in Klang Valley, Malaysia. By way of implementing a series of multivariate analyses, the study divulged that self-esteem has noteworthily played its role of moderating the predictive relationship between social support and depression which mediated by dysfunctional attitudes in the samples, whereas the moderating effect of dysfunctional attitudes on the relationship among social support, self-esteem and depression has been insignificant, showing that dysfunctional attitudes is a remarkably consistent mediator in the one-way relationship between social support and depression moderated by self-esteem. Following the research findings, discussion has been carried out to elucidate the phenomenon.
 

Performance Management in Sports for All
Dana Badau, Adina Camarda, Sorin Serbanoiu, Tudor Virgil, Dragos Bondoc-Ionescu, Adela Badau

Abstract: The need to evaluate performance management in sports for all, that is the sport instructors as managers, is determined by the accurate and optimum need of dimensioning and distributing objectives, by the method of improvement for these staff categories and by the need to diminish risks, which are caused by keeping or promoting incompetent persons in management positions. This text addresses the topic of performance management, a continuous process of identifying, measuring and developing the performance of individuals and teams and aligning performance with the strategic goals of Romanian Federation Sport for all It is no longer a secret for anyone that one of the most difficult challenges managers face in contemporary organizations is performance management. Within activities specific to sports for all, nowadays, the evaluation of sport instructor-managers is not accomplished on the basis of specific criteria, as the case of trainer – managers involved in performance sport. Our purpose is to elaborate evaluation criteria for sport instructor-managers so that their evaluation is made according to performance management, by commeasuring and comparing results, by the physical-intellectual potential, professional and managerial potential, according to the objectives and requirements of the position held , therefore being eliminated the subjectivism and hazard of evaluation.
 

Utilization of Computer Technology in Learning Transformation
Kamariah Abu Bakar, Ahmad Fauzi Mohd Ayub, Rohani Ahmad Tarmizi

Abstract: The integration of technological tools especially computer software may contribute to creating powerful learning environments in numerous ways especially in the teaching and learning of mathematics. Utilization of computer technology to enhance students understanding of mathematics has been widely practised. Various types of dynamic mathematical software such as Geometer’s Sketchpad, Autograph and the Graphing Calculator have been utilized for the learning of mathematics in Malaysian secondary schools. However, the use of an open source software in teaching and learning mathematics is still new in Malaysia. This paper compare the effectiveness of an open source software, GeoGebra and two coursewares (e-transformation and V-transformation) developed by the researchers for learning transformation. A total of 101 secondary school students participated in the study. They were randomly assigned into three separate groups. Each group underwent instruction utilizing one of the three coursewares. Findings showed that significant differences existed between the pre and post test of the performance scores of each group that used GeoGebra, e-transformation and V-transformation. However, there was no significant difference in the post test performance scores of the three groups. Further analysis also showed that there was no significant difference in the post test scores of each of the three topics included in the software. These findings had shown that computer technology was effective in teaching mathematics at Malaysian secondary school level. However, the findings did not indicate which software was more suitable to be used in the teaching and learning transformation.
 

Factors Influencing Students' Use a Learning Management System Portal: Perspective from Higher Education Students
Ahmad Fauzi Mohd Ayub, Rohani Ahmad Tarmizi, Wan Marzuki Wan Jaafar, Wan Zah Wan Ali, Wong Su Luan

Abstract: There has been high increasing in using web portal as way to connect with students. Institutions of higher education have started developing web portal for students’ use. Almost every university had its own LMS for their students use. In this study an online mathematics portal named as Portal of Learning Calculus (POLCA) is designed to provide a centralized point for students to access information during teaching and learning Calculus at the university. This study aimed to identify the factors that influencing students using POLCA in teaching and learning of Calculus at the University. We examined five factors viz-a-viz the students’ technology competencies, the role of lecturers, access to POLCA and attitude towards the usage of POLCA. Findings showed that the highest mean refers to students’ technology competencies (M = 3.27) followed by the design of POLCA (M=2.61), attitudes toward the usage of POLCA (M = 2.51), the role of lecturers (M = 2.44) and access to the portal (M =2.36). Research findings also showed that there was a strong relationship between the design of POLCA [r (214) = 0.547; p <.01], lecturers role [r(214)= 0.468; p <.01] and access to POLCA [r(214) = 0.327; p<.01] with the attitudes toward using POLCA. However there is no relationship between students’ technology competencies with attitudes toward using the learning portal. Findings from regression analysis show that 35.5%.
 

Effects of Technology Enhanced Teaching on Performance and Cognitive Load in Calculus
Rohani Ahmad Tarmizi, Ahmad Fauzi Mohd Ayub, Kamariah Abu Bakar, Aida Suraya Yunus

Abstract: Technology or computer-support learning allows more students to be actively thinking about information, making choices, and executing skills than is typical in teacher-centred learning. Moreover, when technology is used as a tool to support students in performing authentic tasks, the students are in the position of defining their goals, making design decisions, and evaluating their progress. The teacher's role changes as well. As students work on their technology-supported products, the teacher moves around the room, looking over shoulders, asking about the reasons for various design choices, and suggesting resources that might be used. This study aimed to investigate the cognitive factors enhanced with the integration of interactive software Autograph in comparison to the conventional way for teaching Calculus at the secondary level. A quasi-experimental research design was used for this study with three phases implemented: 1) Introductory lesson on use of Autograph, 2) Integrated collaborative learning in using Autograph software, 3) Students performance utilizing the Autograph software was found to be more superior significantly, t (77) = 2.58, p < .05 compared to the conventional learning mode. However, conventional learners showed low mental effort as compared to the Autograph learners. These findings suggested that in utilizing any technological tools, a comprehensive measures addressing issues of instructional efficiency is crucial especially when involving large scale implementation of technology integration in teaching and learning.
 

Principals' Level of Computer Use and Some Contributing Factors
M. Afshari, K. Abu Bakar, S. L. Wong., M. Afshari

Abstract: This study identified the extent to which Iranian secondary school principals use computers and explored the relationship between three variables related to ICT use. These factors included high level of computer access, positive attitudes towards ICT, and positive cultural perceptions of ICT, all contributed significantly to the computer use by principals. Findings from this study indicated that principals spent a few times a week working on their computers. It seems that knowledge of the role of ICT in the work life of the school principals and the acquisition of appropriate skills to use this knowledge needs to be understood by the principals. Hence, considerable ongoing professional development opportunities should be provided for principals to fulfill their role as technology leaders.
 

    Paper Title, Authors, Abstract (Issue 3, Volume 4, 2010)

Pages

Development and Evaluation of a Chemistry Educational Software for Learning Organic Reactions Using Qualitative Reasoning
Alicia Y. C. Tang, Sharifuddin M. Zain, Rukaini Abdullah

Abstract: In science education, it is believed that students should understand the qualitative principles that govern the subject including the cause-effect relationships in processes before they are immersed in complex problem solving. Traditional educational programs for teaching organic chemistry do not usually explain or justify an observed chemical phenomenon. These programs do not “explain” simply because the results are obtained through chaining the rules or by searching the reaction routes that have been pre-coded in software. This paper discusses the development techniques, simulation results, and student evaluation of a software tool that aimed to help chemistry students learn organic processes through the study of causal theories in a chemical system. Mastering the causal theories of physical phenomena can help students in answering fundamental questions in science education. The simulation technique used is qualitative reasoning that emphasizes the importance of conceptual knowledge and causal theories in education, particularly concerning predicting and reasoning about system behaviour. The results from a preliminary evaluation showed that the tool is effective in terms of its ability to promote students’ understanding of organic reactions through the inspection of the explanations generated by the software, where students are seen as the recipients of knowledge delivered via the “explanation” pedagogy.
 

The Essential Role of Language Mastering in Science and Technology Education
Liliana Mammino

Abstract: Education is based on mutual communication between the teacher and the learner. Any other process leading to acquisition of knowledge is based on communication between a certain source (a person, a book, other types of sources) and the person who aims at acquiring knowledge. The quality of the communication determines the quality and efficiency of the learning process and the quality, depth and completeness of the acquisition of knowledge – where by acquisition of knowledge is meant not a passive ability to reproduce memorized materials, but the sort of internalization that makes the learner capable of developing independent ways of reflecting and thinking on the material concerned. Language is the fundamental tool for communication, and has a fundamental role also in the development of abilities in other communication tools like visualization or the use of symbols. Language is also the fundamental tool for the development of thought and is, therefore, essential for all the inquiry aspects in the sciences and in the trains of thoughts leading from information to interpretation and ultimately to theory. The article: underlines and documents the importance of language mastering for students pursuing science or engineering careers; suggests that the development of language-mastering abilities, up to the sophistication levels needed for the generation and communication of scientific information, needs to become a relevant component of science and technology education; and discusses some possible implementation pathways.
 

IT Literacy of Language Teachers in Malaysian Technical Schools
Norizan Abdul Razak, Maimun Aqsha Lubis, Mohamed Amin Embi, Ramlee Mustafa

Abstract: Successful introduction of technology in language education comes with a price - as not only the technology is expensive, it is ineffective unless teachers are trained and made comfortable with its use. As technical schools contribute and prepare skilled workforce for Malaysian economy, the need for teachers to be IT literate is immensely critical. This paper presents findings of a study designed to investigate the existing level of IT competency of language teachers in Malaysian technical schools. The results show that the majority of English teachers in Malaysian technical schools are still novice users of IT. Some of the reason deduced from the survey and the interview were low level of computer competency, less focus on the new computing skills, limited training program, technofear, limited infrastructure and support. Recommendations in addressing these issues especially regarding the provision of supportive teaching environment in technical schools are put forth.
 

Education for Sustainable Management
Davorin Kralj

Abstract: The global economic system needs to show a more human and environment friendly face. Companies must ensure that their traditional focus on corporate profits and shareholder value is accompanied by equal concern for the needs of society and the environment. One of the key reasons for the problems of today is the absence of an integral approach in planning or drafting development strategies. It is a feature of natural eco-systems that each thing or living creature can do several things at the same time and that each important task is supported by several different elements. Human society may also be viewed as an integral system made up of individuals and groups, but subjected as a whole to the laws of nature.The article focuses on system approach and education as an influence on environmental care and sustainable management. Integrated system approach and education management integrate the requirements of sustainable development and environmental care. Environmental care and sustainable development are result of education and dialectical system approach.
 

i-ELLS: A Research-based Design for an Online Interactive Literacy System
Afendi Hamat, Nor Fariza Mohd. Nor, Hazita Azman, Nadzrah Abu Bakar, Noorizah Mohd. Noor

Abstract: There are only a few learning systems that take into account learner's needs and strategies. The interactive English Language Literacy System (i-ELLS) is designed from the ground up based on identified reading strategies of L2 learners at tertiary level. A survey was carried out to identify reading strategies used by these learners when they read in online environments. The findings provide the basis for the design of the system. This paper reports on how the strategies were mapped into technological features or tools within the system.
 

A Self-Organized Neuro-Fuzzy System for Stock Market Dynamics Modeling and Forecasting
Ching Long Su, Chuen Jyh Chen, Shih Ming Yang

Abstract: A self-organized, five-layer neuro-fuzzy model is developed to model the dynamics of stock market by using technical indicators. The model effectiveness in prediction and forecasting is validated by a set of data containing four indicators: the stochastic oscillator (%K and %D), volume adjusted moving average (VAMA) and ease of movement (EMV) from TAIEX (Taiwan Stock Exchange Capitalization Weighted Stock Index). A modified moving average method is proposed to predict the input set for the neuro-fuzzy model in forecasting stock price. Simulation results show that the model is effective in prediction and accurate in forecasting. The input error from the prediction of the modified moving average method is attenuated significantly by the neuro-fuzzy model to yield better forecasting results.
 

    Paper Title, Authors, Abstract (Issue 4, Volume 4, 2010)

Pages

Web Based Real-Time Meteorological Data Analysis and Mapping Information System
Refik Samet, Serhat Tural

Abstract: In this paper, the real-time meteorological data analysis and mapping information system is proposed. This system makes real-time data and the results of analysis available through all end users. It captures the real-time meteorological data from meteorological stations, pushes these data into geodatabase and publishes the raw data and the results of analysis through server as a web mapping service that can be accepted by any desktop and web applications. One of contributions of the proposed system is executing the real-time analysis and mapping operations whenever the latest real-time meteorological data arrive to the system via a determined protocol from meteorological stations. This contribution allows the system to store, analyze and map each meteorological data once. Other contribution is related to mapping operations. Proposed system creates the map for certain data and for the results of analysis and renews each time when the data is changed. Due to these contributions proposed information system allows the end users to get newest metrological information in instant. Besides, because these operations are performed on the server side, any end user can use them without the need for custom code.
 

A Design of Case-Based Decision Making Method by ES in Educational Business Model
Young Jun Kim

Abstract: A case-based reasoning has emerged as an alternative to rule-based techniques for the expert system design. This paper describes an application of case-based reasoning method to the expert system design for decision making. With user's requirements, the system searches a domain dependent case-base for a similar case. If there is one, the system uses it to strategic decision making with minimum user's interaction. When there is no similar case, the system uses cases in domain independent case-base to make a new strategic decision making. The strategies for retrieving the relevant cases, for building a rough solution, for repairing the rough solution, and for learning cases are also described. It is also shown how the system works by using an example in designing for management applications. The major contribution of this paper is educational business model of an expert system with case-based reasoning approach to decision making. Since many strategic decision making experts use their old experiences in various cases, this study can lead to more realistic solution for such expert system in business applications.
 

Experimental Results Obtained in Computer Assisted Auditory-Verbal Education
Ovidiu Grigore, Valentin Velican, Alexandra Craciunoiu

Abstract: The article discusses principles of designing and implementing an educational software application intended for auditory-verbal education of hearing impaired children. Furthermore the paper presents an ActionScript 3.0 based application developed by the authors, discussing and motivating internal architecture choices made during the development process.
 

Electronic Education in the Czech Republic in 2003-10: Development and Students/attitudes
I. Simonova, P. Poulova

Abstract: The paper deals with the situation at Czech universities within the last decade when electronic way of learning started to be implemented in the process of instruction. In the first part, the situation is described from the general point of view, and the chronological development is presented. In the second part, a survey monitoring changes in students/attitudes towards this way of education are presented. The results are critically evaluated, and several improvements are recommended.
 

From the Romanian National Framework of Qualifications to the Implementation of Bologna Process – Romanian Realities
Mihaela Suditu, Emil Stan, Cristina Safta, Corina Iurea

Abstract: The hereby research paper presents, from a theoretical and analytical perspective, the problems related to the setting up and developing of the European qualification meta-framework that facilitates the relation and the communication among national qualification specialists, who guarantee the transfer, transparency and acknowledgement of qualifications within the European area. At the same time, the paper presents, in detail, the specific elements of the Romanian National Framework of Qualifications as concerns: implementation, structure, characteristics, level of education and training, qualification levels. The presentation perspective is theoretical, descriptive and analytical.
 

A Novel and Ubiquitous Early Intervention Support System for Down Syndrome Children
Yeo Kee Jiar, Eko Supriyanto, Haikal Satria, Tan Meng Kuan, Yap Ee Han

Abstract: Early Intervention Program (EIP) is very important in the overall development of children, especially to Down syndrome children. Trainers or teachers in special education field implement EIP in their daily teaching in order to improve the developmental abilities of Down syndrome children. In this study, a novel and ubiquitous Early Intervention Support System (EISS) will be created so that to assist the involved individuals in the implementation of this important program. The newly invented EISS consists of the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology; computer based processing unit and the display unit. Besides that, the assessment test of the children ability is available in the internet to enable free access of the parents and teachers of Down syndrome children around the world at any time. The EISS will generate individual trainings based on input units, manage the user data effectively and provide the detailed information on Down syndrome to the users. This instrument is targeted to be used by teachers and trainers in special education classrooms or parents of Down syndrome children. In short, this support system is the ability to increase the implementation of EIP in Malaysia in order to improve the quality of life of Down syndrome children.