Learning object farms and learning design in science education

Abstract

A Learning Object (LO) is a collection of digital pieces representing a minimal, independent and standalone educational unit. By combining XML and MathML technologies, together with the computing power of server based Computer Algebra Systems (CAS), it is possible to design new web-based information services where teachers and learners in parallel on the fly might easily design, produce/reproduce, explore and terminate various classes of digital LOs. Such an approach offers through Web large-scale production and harvesting of classes of graphical LOs, i.e. Learning Object Farms (LOF), that are adapted and dedicated to various training and learning scenarios targeting mathematics, statistics and natural science education. LOF offer homogenous and easy to use mechanisms for interactive heterogeneous mathematical, statistical and natural science presentations to be displayed through digital blackboards or a PC that is interconnected to a projector. Standard mathematical and scientific notation is obtained in both static and dynamical text based XHTML presentations, and in graphical presentations exploring Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG). A LOF might easily be included into LCMS.