Learning Objects WebCT Tea Designer Group Meeting October 19, 2004 Presented by: Jennifer Brown Janey Oliphint

Introduction to Learning Objects (LOs) Learning Object (LO) Examples Repositories for locating LOs LOs in WebCT Questions and Answers Meeting Agenda

The definition of an LO varies. Generally it is: A unit of instruction A single topic or section of a broad topic Used to support learning Variable in size, scope and complexity What is a Learning Object?

In addition… They are modular in nature, meaning that a series of resources can be combined to provide a complex learning experience They are digital resources and often include multimedia They should include some form of learning outcomes assessment What is a Learning Object?

Simulations Animations Text Website links Audio Video Learning Objects May Include These Digital Resources: Illustrations Photographs Diagrams Maps Charts Quizzes

They: Teach a full concept or learning objective in a section of a course Supplement primary materials in the course Demonstrate concepts (with simulations or animations) How are Learning Objects Used in Courses?

In addition: They can be used for assignments students are to complete, such as a web search and discuss LO They can be used for or often include assessment of student learning. How are Learning Objects Used in Courses?

Variety of learning styles engaged Active rather than passive approach to teaching and learning “Real world” scenarios presented Personalized learning offers multiple learning paths Feedback provided How do Students Benefit?

Access to a large body of instructional resources available for download (often free) Saves faculty development time and provides better utilization of campus resources A way to gain recognition from peers through the sharing scholarly work A way to obtain feedback from peers How do Faculty Benefit?

Choices will increase as more resources become available From a pedagogical standpoint, they fit within Instructional Systems Design Theories. LO materials will still be of use when other proprietary systems change. Course Management Systems support LOs Pros: General Benefits of Learning Objects

Implementation requires training, evaluation of resources, and possibly reworking content that is already created. Quality varies from one LO to the next Course Management Systems may lag months behind the newest technology. Students may not have the technology available or skills needed to utilize all LOs Cons:

Monterey Motion Graphics: Online Presentation of Learning Objects Finding & Using Learning Objects

Place where objects are collected & stored Learning Object Repositories Allows for multiple objects or collections to be organized with a single search set Provides architecture for easy searching

Types: Metadata: data about data Format Version Type Language Title Author Technical Requirements Audience

Types: Metadata: data about data Format Java Applet Version 1.0 Type Animation Language English Title Fund Theorem of Calculus Author Garrett Heath Technical Requirements Web Browser Audience High School, College

“I need something to help me better illustrate a concept my students often struggle with.” Where Do I Start?

MERLOT: Multimedia Educational Resource for Learning and Online TeachingMERLOT CAREO: Campus Alberta Repository of Educational MaterialCAREO GEM: Gateway to Educational MaterialsGEM EOE: Educational Object EconomyEOE Wisconsin Online Resource Center Examples of General Repositories

Phonetics of English & Spanish Flash Animation Project Business Ethics Case Study from Creighton University Additional Examples of Learning Objects

Search Strategies & Tips Before beginning your search, remember: It may take time to find something appropriate Research different repositories subject requirements When deciding to use an object, consider the following: Copyright restrictions and/or possible costs with use Technical requirements for students

How do Learning Objects that I find in a repository look in WebCT? Learning Objects in WebCT

Thank You for attending the WebCTea Designer Group Meeting Resources will be available on the Faculty Resources website at Question & Answer Session