RLOs: Tailored technology to support objective learning Lauren Philp Introductions and background.

What is an RLO? RLO: Reusable Learning Object characteristics; Digital Self contained Small in size Standardised Flexible Interoperable Suitable for a range of learners Cost effective (Wiley, 2002; Barritt and Alderman, 2004; McGreal, 2004; Koohang and Harman, 2007; Williams et al, 2015; Raspopovic et al, 2016) RLO stands for reusable learning object. Resusbale learning objects provide a digital educational resource which can be accessed from a central online repository. The size, scope and level of RLOs can vary depending upon the learning objective. They tend to focus on one learning objective in an organised, linear striaghtforward and structured way. They can be designed to allow the learner to take on small chunks of information or can be more complex. The main characteristics of RLOs suggested by various authors (compare Wiley, 2002; Barritt and Alderman, 2004; McGreal, 2004; and Koohang and Harman, 2007): (1)  Digital / web-based – 24/7 accessible (2)  Reusable – RLOs can be used in multiple context; for multiple purpose; at multiple times (e.g. RLOs can be used to teach an undergraduate or graduate course, short course, certificate course, or extension/outreach) (3) Self-contained – each RLO focuses on a specific topic / learning objective (4) Small in size – to focus learner's attention (2-15 minutes) (5) Standardized – RLOs follow the same organizational structure; free of look- and feel of formatting to be reused in multiple delivery media (6) Searchable – RLOs are tagged with metadata (information that describes the RLO) (7) Flexible – RLOs are easy to update; provide access to quality teaching and learning resources for a wide range of learners (8) Interoperable – RLOs operate across different platforms and communicate with other tools to build larger modules, courses or curricula (9) Suited for new types of learners – net-generation learner; learner-centered (10) Cost-effective – avoid duplication of learning materials; provide intellectual capital. Widespread credit to introduce the term Reusable Learning Object is given to Wayne Hodgins (in Wiley, 2002) that was inspired by one of his children playing with Lego building blocks (Fig. 2), while mulling over some problems regarding learning strategies. Hodgins suggested that building blocks for learning, plug-and-play interoperable pieces of learning, are needed. Reusable learning objects are perceived as the smallest, standalone unit of learning that can be transposed on a specific topic RLOs may; Improve efficiency and prevent re-teaching Offer staged self test elements Give immediate feedback Be used through a variety of platforms Encourage autonomous learning May improve time spent on task Give standardised feedback

High resolution photographs Designing an RLO for midwives High resolution photographs Navigation buttons Learning outcome; to improve skill acquisition and knowledge in basic newborn life support. Created the document in Adobe Indesign, a professional software package which allows individuals to create articles for publication. I used a simple interactive PDF. Using an interactive PDF means that users can view and use the interactive features using Adobe Reader (which is free) or Adobe Acrobat (which the University have already purchased). An interactive PDF allows the creator to add buttons and attach actions. For example; one button will be linked to a specific auido while another button may take the student to the next page. Design was considered- I wanted the RLO to be engeging so I used high resoluation realistoc photographs and I kept the layout the same on every page. For example; the navigation buttons. Compatible with Adobe reader/Acrobat and may be accessed via Blackboard or Onedrive

Designing an RLO for midwives Replay scenario button Audio with immediate feedback The RLO itself automatically plays audio when a page loads. This audio gives the student an ongoing scenario and then the student may decide her action. Feedback on her decision is tailored to let her know where and why she is right or wrong about her decision. The feedback includes key anatomy and physiology learning points and clarifies and reinforces theory taught material in the classroom. Interactive buttons

Future developments Incorporation of video Less linear and more complex Potential revenue- opening intellectual capital to markets such as the Apple App store Potential research investigating level of skill acquisition using RLOs

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