Computer-supported statistics courses in online environments: adding e-repositories to the equation

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to discuss how computer-supported statistics courses can be enhanced by incorporating learning object repositories. These e-repositories can act as a perfect methodological complement to other technologies such as learning management systems, statistical software or other general internet resources. To that end, the chapter first reviews some of the most popular learning management systems and statistical online resources available today. Then, the paper describes our experience regarding the design, development and use of learning object repositories for supporting students in an online environment. Use of these e-repositories has eventually contributed to generate academic benefits both for online students and instructors. Students have now just-in-time access to the specific statistical resources they need, while instructors are able to provide a better and more complete guidance to students at the same time they can monitor students' downloads and identify which are the most demanded learning objects related to their statistics courses.