Automated Development of Individual Learning Paths on the Competency Approach

This article proposes new approach to the development of student’s individual learning path (ILP). The result of student’s learning is defined as a set of competencies levels. The use of the multi-level system of generalized professional competencies allows to model ILP effectively and to automate the development of an optimal ILP. Each competency level in our model introduces some substantial units called subunits. The process of learning is a sequence of transitions from one student’s state to another through a study of one or more courses. It is possible to present the relation of competency levels and courses in our model as Petri net. Using the Petri net model it is possible to automatically generate the individual learning path including the courses that the student needs to attend according to the set of certain competency levels. For searching of an optimum individual learning path we use algorithm based on tree of reachability for Petri net. The developed model and algorithm were used in the prototype of the information system for automating the construction of individual learning paths. The developed information system may be used for the construction of individual student's learning paths in educational institutions of higher education.