Vicarious Learning from Tutorial Dialogue

Abstract

Vicarious Learning is learning from watching others learn. We believe that this is a powerful model for computer-based learning. Learning episodes can be captured and replayed to later learners: a natural context for this is learning embedded in dialogue. This paper briefly surveys aspects of the theoretical basis of how learning may work in these contexts, and what is needed for a deeper appreciation of the mechanisms involved. A project that applies these ideas is also discussed, in which vicarious learning from tutorial group dialogue supports an online learning community that creates new learning materials as a group activity. We postulate that the resulting combination of shared activity with broader perspectives holds strong promise for online vicarious learning.