An Adaptive E-Learning Platform for Individuals with Down Syndrome

Abstract

Children with Down Syndrome (DS) encounter varying degrees of learning disabilities within the traditional education framework, requiring personalized interventions. This paper presents Blooming Minds, an adaptive, Machine Learning (ML) driven e-learning platform designed to support the development of cognitive, linguistic, and motor skills in children with DS. Built on the VARK (Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, Kinematic) theory, the platform provides personalized activities using real-time feedback mechanisms. The system includes nine interactive modules that cover the above VARK theory. It uses ML algorithms, including Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Random Forest (RF) for screening, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) for handwriting and speech analysis, Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) for sequence prediction, and Reinforcement Learning (RL) for adaptive difficulties. Handwritten letters and voice samples from children with DS, both domestic and international, were specifically considered as inputs for this research. Progress tracking dashboards provide visual insights for educators, parents, and caregivers, improving support and adaptability. The system achieved 91.26% accuracy in letter recognition and 88% in speech classification. This e-learning platform has been recognized as an effective solution in Sri Lanka, allowing for further correlations and investigations to assess the knowledge capacity and ability to express that knowledge in children with DS