Experiences on Manual vs. Automatic Formation of Learner Groups

Abstract

This study is concerned with computer-based approach to form effective
hetero-generous learners group. Taking Mathematics as the subject of the
experimental study, some characteristics were identified for inclusion in order to
compose the groups. An automated grouping system (software tool) was then
developed based on a vector space mathematical model. In order to evaluate the
software tool, an experiment was conducted on three sections of students in a
senior secondary school in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Students in the first section
were grouped randomly while students in the second section were grouped based
on self-selection. The students in the third section were grouped automatically
based on some selected personality characteristics. The software tool developed
was found to be a viable grouping technique to create effective groups.