Academic Study Plan Recommender and Simulator System Using
Forward Chaining and Heuristic Algorithms
Criselle J. Centeno
1
, Jonilo Mababa
2
, Isagani Mirador Tano
3
, Keno Piad
4
, Ace Lagman
5
, Joseph
Espino
6
, Jayson Victoriano
7
1,2
Graduate School Department, La Consolacion University, Bulihan, City of Malolos, Bulacan, Philippines
4,7
Graduate School Department, Bulacan State University, Malolos, Bulacan, Philippines
3
Graduate School Department, Quezon City University, Sanbartolome, Quezon City, Philippines
5
Graduate School Department, Far Eastern University, Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines
6
Graduate School Department, Bulacan State University, Bulihan, City of Malolos, Bulacan, Philippines
DOI : https://doi.org/10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2025.1401021
Received: 24 January 2025; Accepted: 01 February 2025; Published: 17 February 2025
Abstract— The Academic Study Plan Recommender and Simulator System introduces an innovative approach to academic
planning, combining Forward Chaining and Heuristic Algorithms to generate personalized and optimized study plans. Forward
Chaining enables the dynamic evolution of plans by iteratively applying rules based on individual academic goals, elective
preferences, and constraints. Heuristic Algorithms enhance this process by prioritizing courses based on factors such as relevance,
difficulty, and scheduling, ensuring optimal decision-making and improved user satisfaction. The system’s simulator component
further empowers students by enabling them to explore various academic scenarios and adapt to changes like elective choices or
shifts in majors. Feedback from IT experts revealed a 90% call for algorithmic improvements, emphasizing the need for enhanced
reliability and performance, even though satisfaction with the system reached 76.8%. Functional suitability received an overall
satisfaction rating of 4.27, with high ratings for functional correctness and appropriateness from both faculty and irregular
students. Performance efficiency and usability achieved similarly strong ratings, averaging 4.26 and 4.21, respectively. Key
usability factors like appropriateness recognizability, operability, and user interface design contributed significantly to user
satisfaction. Additionally, reliability and security scored highly, averaging 4.40 and 4.26, underscoring the system's dependable
and secure operations. Flexibility and compatibility were also commended, with average ratings of 4.27, reflecting the system’s
adaptability and seamless integration with other tools and processes. Maintainability received a high score of 4.23, demonstrating
the system’s ease of modification and testing. Faculty and irregular students particularly appreciated features such as modularity,
operability, and learnability, which align with studies highlighting the importance of these factors in educational technologies. By
digitizing the academic planning process, the system reduces manual effort for instructors and students while delivering accurate,
adaptive study plans tailored to individual needs. The results affirm the system’s capability to enhance user experiences and
support educational success through personalized and optimized planning.
Keywords— Academic Study Planning, Forward Chaining, Heuristic Algorithms, Usability and Satisfaction Educational
Technology Optimization
I. Introduction
In the evolving educational landscape, students face challenges in creating effective study plans due to factors like learning styles,
academic performance, time constraints, and resource availability. Algorithmic systems, particularly those using forward chaining
and heuristic algorithms, offer a structured yet flexible approach to study planning. Forward chaining logically sequences courses
based on prerequisites, while heuristics optimize time management, task prioritization, adaptability, and study plan efficiency.
The system dynamically allocates study time by analyzing available hours and recommending structured sessions using
techniques like spaced repetition and Pomodoro strategies to maximize retention. It prioritizes subjects based on student
performance, ensuring areas needing improvement receive more focus. Additionally, it adapts to individual learning preferences
by recommending study subjects to focus on, to tailor to the student's engagement style. Through heuristic optimization methods
like greedy algorithms, simulated annealing, and genetic algorithms, the system generates the most efficient study sequences,
balancing workload and prerequisite requirements to prevent academic overload. This research aims to bridge theoretical
principles with practical applications by developing a personalized, adaptive, and optimized study plan recommender and
simulator system, ultimately improving academic efficiency and student outcomes.
Significance of the Study
The following shall benefit from this study:
1. Students. The study aims to create a system that specializes study plans based on individual students' academic history,
constraints, and academic needs. This customization can lead to more effective learning experiences, addressing the
diverse needs of students with varying learning styles and capabilities. On the other hand, students may experience