Dewhurst D, Cromar S, Ellaway R. RECAL: A Sustainable Learning Objects Approach to Creating Computer-Based Alternatives. Paper presented at: Alternatives in the Mainstream: Innovations in Life Science Education and Training. 2nd InterNICHE Conference; 2005 May 12-15; Oslo, Norway


Abstract

The mainstay alternatives to using animals in higher education are multimedia computer-assisted learning (CAL) programs simulating pharmacology practical classes. They are intrinsically tied to the authoring application used to create them, are not editable and, with ever changing operating systems, rapidly become obsolete.
The RECAL project, funded by the Lord Dowding Fund, is developing methods and tools to break this cycle of redundancy and reinvention. The approach is to disaggregate existing CAL programs to separate the learning objects (media elements, sequencing and runtime instructions) from the runtime environment. This allows learning objects to be modified, removed and replaced by new ones, and different objects added, such as textfiles in different languages. This approach promotes local editing to suit particular needs and facilitates reuse and sharing. Developments have thus far focused on a Macromedia Flash runtime tool that can read a standards-based XML parameter file, call down the appropriate resources from the repository, in which the resources are catalogued and stored, and provide the interface for the user. The pedagogical design is rendered using IMS Simple Sequencing, which can describe a single learner's navigation path(s) through a group of learning activities. A RECAL editor will allow teachers to create or adapt both the content and sequencing. The RECAL project, by adopting principles of standards, objects and reusability, has both improved the long-term viability of CAL alternatives and facilitated their adaptation by teachers to meet local needs.