What is a learning object?
That's an excellent question.
If you are looking for a broad definition:
Learning Objects are defined here as any entity, digital or non-digital, which can be used, re-used or referenced during technology supported learning. Examples of technology-supported learning include computer-based training systems, interactive learning environments, intelligent computer-aided instruction systems, distance learning systems, and collaborative learning environments. Examples of Learning Objects include multimedia content, instructional content, learning objectives, instructional software and software tools, and persons, organizations, or events referenced during technology supported learning (LOM, 2000).
Or we can get a little more narrow:
Any digital resource that can be reused to support learning, (Wiley, 2000)
Although there is much debate over exactly what a learning object is, the general idea is that it is a reusable piece of educational digital information.
Conceptualizations of Learning Objects
The primary concept of a learning object is that it is re-usable, multi-usable (having many uses) and interchangable.
The Lego model
The Atom model
Think about learning objects as pieces that can be fit together to form "learning"
Problem with this model - realistically, not every lego of information functionally "fits" with every other lego
Considers learning objects as one piece of many different parts. Atom model include the object (or artifact) at the center, surrounded by metadata, assessments, activities.
Not every atom combines easily with each and every atom.
What makes something reusable?
In theory, just about everything is reusable. You may have written a paper on the viability of the east coast frog culture, and someone, somewhere may find it of use in their studies.
Educators have been reusing bits and pieces for years - it's nothing new, but with the increase of time and energy needed for incorporating technology, it has also become important to share.
In general, learning objects are interested in finding things that are reusable to large numbers of people. For example, let's look at the visual ANOVA. Statistics is something that almost every undergraduate and graduate student has to complete. This resource could be used far and wide, helping lots of different types of students. We can also look at the Mendelian Genetics site as an example that could help a large number of students, in college and K-12 learn about genetics.
In general, to make something reusable, we look for:
- granularity (is it a small enough chunk)
- self-contained (can it be imported/exported, moved etc. between learning environments?)
- independant (can it work across topics/disciplines, etc?)
Let's face it - creating resources using technology takes time and effort. Why not share what we've created for the benefit of everyone?
Other Definitions associated with learning objects:
Metadata: To be able to use learning objects, you need to be able to find learning objects. Metadata is a way to "tag" or categorize objects so that people can search for them. This allows people to create directories of learning objects, much like a library creates a card catelog. The big hub-ub about metadata is how we tag them and how best to categorize them.
RSS: Stands for Really Simple Syndication or Rich Site Summary, depending on who you are talking to. RSS is a way to track and aggregate information. Using RSS, you can follow your favorite website, or group learning objects together
(for more info see: http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss#whatIsRss )
IMS: Instructional Management System
SCORM: Sharable Content Object Reference Model. Most people are looking for things to be "SCORM-compliant" meaning that in theory, objects can be easily moved between
References
LOM (2000). LOM working draft v4.1 [On-line]. Available: http://ltsc.ieee.org/doc/wg12/LOMv4.1.htm
Wiley, D. A. (2000). Connecting learning objects to instructional design theory: A definition, a metaphor, and a taxonomy. In D. A. Wiley (Ed.), The Instructional Use of Learning Objects: Online Version. Retrieved October 21, 2003, from the World Wide Web: http://reusability.org/read/chapters/wiley.doc