Scalable e-learning multimedia adaptation architecture

Abstract

A neglected challenge in existing e-Learning (eL) systems is providing access to multimedia to all users regardless of environmental conditions such as diverse device capabilities, the heterogeneity of the underlying IP network, and user modality preference. This paper proposes a novel two-tier transcoding framework capable of adapting eL multimedia to meet the end-user environmental challenges. This two-tier architecture consists of 1)an application layer transcoder that adapts the presentation format of the eL content as viewed in a browser to meet device capabilities and user modality preference, 2) a bitstream transcoder that transforms multimedia streams to conform to the device's processing capabilities and to adapt the encoding rate to meet the network's fluctuating bandwidth. Results demonstrate the eL multimedia transcoding for mobile devices and its low overhead delays. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2005.