The Learning 6.5 System: Effective Technology for Distance and Online Education in Science and Technology

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to assess the potential of a technological artifact called "Learning 6.5 system" that addresses both the long-standing need to simplify the computerization of scientific and technical documents and the emerging need for online teaching and evaluation of scientific knowledge. The Learning 6.5 system is a complete e-learning solution that offers end-to-end management of the entire process of computerizing teaching and evaluation materials, distributing and delivering courses, organizing and grading assignments or exams, and publishing results. Its integration of scientific knowledge processing & presentation technology with multimedia & internet technology significantly improves online learning experiences and results. The Learning 6.5 system is built upon a totally new concept based on an original technology for processing composite characters (structural units consisting of ordinary characters, mathematical symbols, polymer structural formulae, geometrical configurations, etc.) and on a non-linear document theory that allows for the appropriate solution of digital processing and network transmission of ordinary, scientific and technical documents, as well as the dynamic presentation of natural logic. Consequently, it makes possible, for the first time in history, real and effective face-to-face "student-teacher" distance learning and online state examinations including middle and high school entrance exams, university entrance exams, university exams, etc.