Computer-Based Learning Environments with Emotional Agents

The purpose of this contribution is to discuss conceptual issues and challenges related to the integration of emotional agents in the design of computer-based learning environments and to propose a framework for the discussion of future research. We review some emotion theories and computational models that have been developed in cognitive science and Artificial Intelligence (AI). We then will discuss some basic principles pertaining to motivation and emotion in instructional design. Grounded on these principles, we then shall present the state of the art of integrating emotions into the design of educational systems, and notably examine how to create intelligent emotional agents that enhance interaction with users. We will introduce the concept of “socio-emotional climate” as an evaluative indicator of the diversity of desirable interactions within a computer-based learning environment. We formulate the conjecture that a socio-emotional climate capable of enhancing learner motivation, self-assessment and self-motivation could be developed through the use of various socio-emotional agents.