Thursday, January 09, 2003

Issues Regarding Learning Objects This article was recommended by Vicky York, "an interesting article 'When is a Learning Object Not an Object: a First Step Towards a Theory of Learning Objects' appeared in the latest issue of International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning." The authors, Mike Sosteric and Susan Hesemeier of Athabasca University, use this definition of learning objects, "A learning object is a digital file (image, movie, etc.,) intended to be used for pedagogical purposes, which includes, either internally or via association, suggestions on the appropriate context within which to utilize the object." The most important part of this definition is in the last clause about the inclusion of an "appropriate context within which to utilize the object." Without some specification about how a learning object is to be used, it is not likely that it will be used. These usability specifications should be included with each object in a learning repository or, failing that item-by-item inclusion, in supplementary guidelines for the identification and use of objects within a learning repository. 8:21:05 AM    COMMENT []