Sunday 25 November 2007

SCORM and eXe

SCORM is the Sharable Content Object Reference Model. It allows content to be loaded into, launched and tracked by any learning management system using a common rule set. Today most Virtual Learning Environments are able to handle SCORM-packages (i.e. that it is possible to un-package and use them within the VLE; e.g.: data of tests taken within a SCORM are stored in the VLE's database; student's use of SCORM-modules can be tracked; etc). Learn more about SCORM here.

We have an excellent example of a SCORM in action on our VLE. It was provided by ATT Training Ltd and focuses on the GCSE Motor and Vehicle Course. You can see this here. You can log in with the username and password of 'motorvehicle'.

There are a few open source tools for packaging content to SCORM. One of the best tools around is eXeLearning (eXe). eXe is a program that allows you to merge various media such as audios, videos, images, texts, ... to a single package. Furthermore it provides you with the possibility to create and add interactive elements (like multiple choice questions) to your content. Click here to download the eXe project.

Click here to see an example of a SCORM product produced using eXe.

Sunday 11 November 2007

Collaborative Working with Google Documents

Click on the link to find information and some suggestions on how teachers might use Google Documents - a free means of sharing documents with others through the internet - to encourage students to work collaboratively.

Collaborative working is promoted in the revised curriculum as a means to help students develop their understanding as well as developing the skills necessary for working with others and can be used across all the areas of learning.

You will find other useful information about how Google tools can be used by educators at Google for Educators

Thursday 1 November 2007

What is the Edusim?

The Edusim is a 3D interactive virtual educational environment. It works brilliantly on an interactive whiteboard. Students can manipulate 3D virtual learning objects directly from the board.

The avatar can be changed by the student. Pupils can use the built in Sketch pad to draw 2D shapes which take on 3D properties when saved. They can also work on the 3D aspects of their shape.

Different "worlds" or backgrounds can be downloaded - Mars, Forest, Water, etc. These worlds include 3D animated objects that the student can interact with.

Edusim uses Croquet an open source "Kidsfirst Application Program". Certainly worth a look.

Check this site out for a more in-depth discussion including videos which demonstrate the variety of uses of this software.