ABSTRACT
Interactive agents used for pedagogical purposes induce a higher motivation to learn in students. These agents, known as ‘pedagogical agents’, enhance learning by attracting attention through a dynamic interactive and conversational mechanism with students, through a bidirectional dialogue. Pedagogical agents are seen as anthropomorphic virtual characters mainly used for educational or training purposes. The interactive virtual tutor here is intended to support the teaching-learning process within the classroom, not as a substitute for a real tutor or teacher, but as a pedagogical support element. The design of the virtual tutoring system, Mindstars Books, integrates ideas from the cognitive theory of multimedia learning, formative assessments, and the Dual Situated Learning Model. The presented virtual tutor has to support the reinforcement of subjects taught in class, through exercises, which allow generation of social and emotional interaction, fostering a natural and real-time relationship with the student.
