Study on the Use of Metadata for Digital Learning Objects in University Institutional Repositories (MODERI)

Abstract

Metadata is a core issue for the creation of repositories. Different institutional repositories have chosen and use different metadata models, elements, and values for describing the range of digital objects they store. Thus, this article analyzes the current use of metadata describing those Learning Objects that some open higher educational institutions’ repositories include in their collections. The goal of this work is to identify and analyze the different metadata models being used to describe educational features of those specific digital educational objects (such as audience, type of educational material, learning objectives, etc.). Also discussed is the concept and typology of Learning Objects (LO) through their use in University Repositories. We will also examine the usefulness of specifically describing those learning objects, setting them apart from other kinds of documents included in the repository, mainly scholarly publications and research results of the higher education institution.