Submission and Peer Review of Learning Objects Using a Community-Based Repository

Abstract

A community-based learning object repository supports the sharing and collaboration of learning object development within discipline or topic area communities. The repository is built using an object-oriented method and implemented using JADE, an object-oriented technology platform. The repository is a software system aimed at improving the creation, collection, quality assurance, and ultimately the accessibility of learning objects. The initiatives regarding learning objects and the double blind review process for research publications are the two key influences on the learning object repository design. The repository is a significant advance on existing learning object technology as 1) it is built using an object-oriented method and platform including the database; typically learning object collections are stored in relational databases, and 2) it incorporates an automated submission and double blind peer review process before learning objects are made public. The use of the repository by the learning object creators, reviewers, moderators, administrators and educators will determine the success of the product.