Winslow Burleson

Abstract

Developing learning experiences that facilitate self-actualization and creativity is among the most important goals of our society in preparation for the future. To facilitate deep understanding of a new concept -- to facilitate learning -- learners must have the opportunity to develop multiple and flexible perspectives. The process of becoming an expert involves failure, understanding failure, and the motivation to move onward. Meta-cognitive awareness and personal strategies can play a role in developing an individual’s ability to persevere through failure and combat other diluting influences. This thesis will center upon the development of a theory for using affective sensing and appropriate relational agent interactions to support learning and meta-cognitive strategies for perseverance through failure.