Learning Object Repository Considerations and Key Decisions for Memorial University of Newfoundland

Goals: • Identify challenges and lessons learned from other learning object repository initiatives that help inform new enterprises • Outline and discuss key decisions for learning object repository implementation • Discuss learning design approach • See input from attendees on our approach and direction Description: Memorial University of Newfoundland, through Distance Education and Learning Technologies (DELT), is implementing a learning object repository (LOR). Through the repository, which is connected to the learning management system, a wealth of various multimedia objects will be made available, for reuse or repurposing, to faculty, instructional designers and others involved in course design and delivery at Memorial. An initiative focusing on the ingestion of forty years worth of video assets into an object repository which can then be used for learning, research and general enjoyment began in 2009. The videos are housed in the university Library's Digital Archive and accessed directly or through the learning management system's LOR via federated searching. In preparation for this undertaking, many questions relating to technologies and tools, standards, process, resources, and sustainability needed to be addressed. A detailed review of recent literature on LOR projects revealed lessons learned, challenges, failures and false starts which highlighted key decision areas needing attention for the success of our initiative. This presentation will overview LOs and repositories and highlight DELT's LOR history. The project's key decision areas, based on the challenges and lessons learned from other initiatives, will be discussed. Approach to ensuring the learning design remains central to object use in course design will be discussed. The path we've followed thus far, what we've learned, and where we are headed will also be presented. It is hoped that sharing this experience will help inform others embarking on learning object or digital asset management initiatives. Input and suggestions from audience members will be welcome.