Union catalogs of learning objects: Why not?

Abstract

This work presents a combined view of digital libraries, union catalogs and digital learning materials; union catalogs of metadata of ETD - Electronic Theses and Dissertations are shown as a paradigm. From this integrated view, and based on the existing ETD solution, it suggests that union catalogs of learning objects (digital learning materials with independent identities) be implemented with the participation of institutions worldwide. Open and free software solutions, and training are part of the overall proposed strategy. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.