DSpace Collection: Learning Networks Research

Design and Implementation Strategies for IMS Learning Design

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 07:58:31 GMT

Title: Design and Implementation Strategies for IMS Learning Design

Authors: Vogten, Hubert

Abstract: The IMS Learning Design (LD) specification, which has been released in February 2003, is a generic and flexible language for describing the learning practice and underlying learning designs using a formal notation which is computer-interpretable. It is based on a pedagogical meta-model (Koper & Manderveld, 2004) and supports the use of a wide range of pedagogies. It supports adaptation of individual learning routes and orchestrates interactions between users in various learning and support roles. A formalized learning design can be applied repeatedly in similar situations with different persons and contexts. Yet because IMS Learning Design is a fairly complex and elaborate specification, it can be difficult to grasp; furthermore, designing and implementing a runtime environment for the specification is far from straightforward. That IMS Learning Design makes use of other specifications and e-learning services adds further to this complexity for both its users and the software developers. For this new specification to succeed, therefore, a reference runtime implementation was needed. To this end, this thesis addresses two research and development issues. First, it investigates research into and development of a reusable reference runtime environment for IMS Learning Design. The resulting runtime, called CopperCore, provides a reference both for users of the specification and for software developers. The latter can reuse the design principles presented in this thesis for their own implementations, or reuse the CopperCore product through the interfaces provided. Second, this thesis addresses the integration of other specifications and e-learning services during runtime. It presents an architecture and implementation (CopperCore Service Integration) which provides an extensible lightweight solution to the problem. Both developments have been tested through real-world use in projects carried out by the IMS Learning Design community. The results have generally been positive, and have led us to conclude that we successfully addressed both the research and development issues. However, the results also indicate that the LD tooling lacks maturity, particularly in the authoring area. Through close integration of CopperCore with a product called the Personal Competence Manager, we demonstrate that a complementary approach to authoring in IMS Learning Design solves some of these issues.

Description: SIKS Dissertation Series No. 2008-27

Supporting the tutor in the design and support of adaptive e-learning

Thu, 29 May 2008 14:40:58 GMT

Title: Supporting the tutor in the design and support of adaptive e-learning

Authors: Van Rosmalen, Peter

Abstract: The further development and deployment of e-learning faces a number of threats. First, in order to meet the increasing demands of learners, staff have to develop and plan a wide and complex variety of learning activities that, in line with contemporary pedagogical models, adapt to the learners’ individual needs. Second, the deployment of e-learning, and therewith the freedom to design the appropriate kind of activities is bound by strict economical conditions, i.e. the amount of time available to staff to support the learning process. In this thesis two models have been developed and implemented that each address a different need. The first model covers the need to support the design task of staff, the second one the need to support the staff in supervising and giving guidance to students' learning activities. More specifically, the first model alleviates the design task by offering a set of connected design and runtime tools that facilitate adaptive e-learning. The second model alleviates the support task by invoking the knowledge and skills of fellow-students. Both models have been validated in near-real-world task settings.

Description: SIKS Dissertation Series No. 2008-07

Design of Cueing in Multimedia Practicals

Thu, 14 Sep 2006 14:31:59 GMT

Title: Design of Cueing in Multimedia Practicals

Authors: Hummel, Hans

Abstract: Computer programs aimed at the acquisition and application of problem-solving skills are referred to as multimedia practicals. Both instructional guidelines and empirical data on necessary support for learners, studying such competence-based learning programs, are sparse. This thesis describes a literature study and a series of experimental studies into cueing, formats of cognitive feedback which provide effective process support in multimedia practicals. The studies focus on worked-out examples and process worksheets as promising cueing formats to support law students learning to systematically prepare and hold a plea in various authentic situations. As a result of this research, the thesis presents a theoretical model, guidelines and practical implications for the design and use of cueing in multimedia practicals.