ABSTRACT Open Learner Models are used in modern e-learning to show system users the content of their learner models. This approach is known to prompt reflection, facilitate planning and navigation. Open Learner Models may show different levels of detail of the underlying learner model, and may structure the information differently. However, a trade-off exists between useful information and the complexity of the information. This paper investigates whether offering richer information is assessed positively by learners and results in more effective support for learning tasks. An interview pre-study revealed which information within the complex learner model is of interest. A controlled user study examined six alternative visualisation prototypes of varying complexity and resulted in the implementation of one of the designs. A second controlled study involved students interacting with variations of the visualisation while searching for suitable learning material, and revealed the value of the design alternative and its variations. The work contributes to developing complex open learner models by stressing the need to balance complexity and support. It also suggests that the expressiveness of open learner models can be improved with visual elements that strategically summarise the complex information being displayed in detail.

中文翻译：

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复杂开放学习者模型中的导航支持：评估视觉设计替代方案

摘要开放学习者模型用于现代电子学习，向系统用户展示他们的学习者模型的内容。众所周知，这种方法可以促进反思、促进规划和导航。开放学习者模型可能会显示底层学习者模型的不同细节级别，并且可能会以不同的方式构建信息。然而，在有用信息和信息的复杂性之间存在权衡。本文调查了提供更丰富的信息是否得到学习者的积极评价，并为学习任务提供更有效的支持。面试前研究揭示了复杂学习者模型中的哪些信息是感兴趣的。一项受控用户研究检查了六个不同复杂性的替代可视化原型，并最终实现了其中一个设计。第二项对照研究涉及学生在寻找合适的学习材料时与可视化的变化进行交互，并揭示了设计替代方案及其变化的价值。通过强调平衡复杂性和支持的必要性，这项工作有助于开发复杂的开放学习者模型。它还表明，可以通过视觉元素战略性地总结详细显示的复杂信息，来提高开放学习者模型的表现力。