Hybrid Representation: Embodied Pedagogical Agent Interface Design

Abstract

This chapter discusses the design of embodied pedagogical interface agents. The ultimate aim of the discussion is to suggest categorical or thematic design guidelines for pedagogical agents. The intent of the guidelines is to encourage multimedia designers to go beyond the current “one size fits all” mentality and encompass issues of race and gender in a way that provides meaningful learning experiences for a greater number of persons. The discussion will consider 43 participants’ self-construction of embodied pedagogical interface agents to identify issues of race, gender, and other design characteristics. Grounded theory methodology was employed to provide additional insight into the design and creation of each participant’s pedagogical interface agent. Four agent designs are included as appendices for reference.