ABSTRACT
This chapter briefly discusses intelligent computer-assisted instruction (ICAI) and then focuses on the key technical issues. ICAI is the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to computer-assisted instruction. Artificial intelligence, a branch of computer science, is defined as making computers smart in order to make them more useful and to better understand human intelligence. ICAI systems use approaches from AI and cognitive science to teach a range of subject matters. In cognitive science, "domain" usually refers to a subject matter area or a process within a subject matter area. Knowledge-base design goal suggested that one should develop a research-informed set of instructional strategies that were logically independent of task or subject matter area. Problem solving as it is appropriate for ICAI technology and is considered a domain-independent strategy. However, one believes that whereas task requirements differ enormously, task-specific instruction is best conceived of as instantiations of domain-independent instructional strategies rather than as domain-dependent instructional strategies unique to the particular domain.
