Conclusions

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The proposed system demonstrates the preliminary results of an ongoing distance-learning research project being worked on at several universities. We have implemented the generic user interface as well as a state machine engine that runs the specification language. Interactions via communication tools, such as videoconferencing and chat room discussions are possible due to the support from the underlying system provided by Microsoft. The preliminary system shows the feasibility of using scaffolding theory in distance education, which is considered the most important contribution of this paper. Behavior supervision is another contribution of this research. We are working on a French literature courseware with which to use the proposed system. A few tools must be developed before being integrated. The FAQ auto-reply system and the chat room participation tools are still under development. We hope that, in the near future, VR technology can be used as another channel for distancelearning communication.

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