Self-directed learning in simulation-based discovery environments

Abstract : SIMQUEST1 is an authoring system for designing and creating simulation-based learn-ing environments. The special character of SIMQUEST learning environments is that they include cognitive support for learners which means that they provide learners with support in the discovery process. In SIMQUEST learning environments we try to find the balance between direct guidance of the learning process and sufficient free-dom for learners to regulate the learning process themselves. In this article we de-scribe the basic mechanisms of the SIMQUEST learning and authoring environments. We describe the functionality authors have in providing the learner with guidance, and report on some of our experiences on how authors use these opportunities and learners employ the cognitive support they are provided with.