A practice-oriented review of learning objects

Abstract

Reusable Learning Objects (RLOs) support packaging of educational materials allowing their discovery and reuse. Open Educational Resources (OERs) emphasise the need for open licencing and promote sharing and community involvement. For both teachers and learners, finding appropriate tried and tested resources on a topic of interest and being able to incorporate them within or alongside other learning materials can enrich provision and share best practice. Resources are made available by a number of general and subject-specific repositories, but there are also many educational resources residing outside these repositories which may provide useful additional materials. Potential users of materials need to be able to locate relevant material and to assess it with respect to a number of factors (such as suitability for purpose and licence requirements). However, even such basic requirements can be less than straightforward to determine. This paper presents a view of the field from the user's perspective, bringing together themes from existing research relating to practice-oriented concerns including discoverability, reusability and quality. It provides a background in this area, exploring current trends, controversies and research findings. The discussion is also aligned with current provision and practice, indicating areas where further research, provision and support would be useful.