EduSource: Canada's learning object repository network

Abstract

Many years ago I attended a meeting at Stanford University where Steve Jobs did his first public demonstration of the NEXT computer. He amazed his audience by selecting a series of visual objects, each of which functioned like a part in a machine. By drawing lines between them on the screen, he made them function together as one machine where the functions integrated seamlessly. These were reusable objects designed to function in any context. The same principles are applied in Object Oriented (computer) Programming, which combines modules to create larger programs. Similar principles build custom learning experiences using Learning Objects. An alliance of Canadian Universities and government agencies pooled their resources to establish a network to share and combine Learning Objects from a variety of sources and further develop this technology. In the process, they resolved many learning, logistical, and legal problems and moved this technology forward by an order of magnitude. Principal goals include: nationwide interoperability, network of repositories, linked servers, repository software programs, national and international standards, digital rights management, business and management models, evaluation and feedback, dissemination of results, and bilingual access to all Canadians, particularly learners with disabilities. The defined tasks were sub-divided into nine work packages, each with a lead institution as package manager.