Semantic learning object repositories

Abstract

Current approaches towards enhancing reusability of learning materials pinpoint the concept of learning object as the key element of a new approach based on the creation of distributed repositories, where learning objects can be accessed, searched and retrieved by using the information in their associated metadata records. The existence of different learning object definitions asks for a new generation of flexible repositories where all the existent conceptualizations fit. In this scenario, ontological representations can play an important role as the support for sound semantic models that fulfil the new requirements. This paper introduces the main ideas about a new generation of flexible repositories, where all the definitions of learning object have their place: the semantic repository.