In this paper we focus on incorporating adaptive
presentation and 3D visualization into Web-based
learning environments to enhance learners’ learning
outcomes, especially to facilitate learners’ spatial reasoning on geometric topics in computer graphics and
mechanical engineering. This system is called CooTutor (Coordinate Tutor). According to educational media studies, “Media and Method” are the main
concerns on of developing such a system. In CooTutor,
interactive 3D media is used to present spatial relations effectively to the learners. Instructional methods
and strategies are embedded in its adaptive mechanism
by incorporating ITS (Intelligent Tutoring Systems)
techniques. Since geometric transformation is the example domain of our study, learners’ spatial ability is
used considered as an index for adapting the presentation. To achieve better abstraction and flexibility, we
have chosen to separate the concept sequencing from
the underlying learning materials. We believe that
Web-based learning could take more advantages of
available computing power to enhance learning by
realizing innovative instructional design, as in the case
of 3D interactive presentation.