Learning objects: a state of the art

Abstract

This article provides a general overview of the concept of Learning Object (LO), including a description of its characteristics and discussion of its relevance in today's world. It begins with a discussion of the need for incorporating Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) to the field of education and an explanation of how they have improved significantly. Then it goes on to establish a definition of LO on a national and international level and describes a series of characteristics that determine the definition of an Object of Learning. It makes it possible to establish a minimum set of properties that determine whether an educational resource is an Object of Learning and describes the criteria that can be used for evaluating and determining the quality of these objects. Since the emergence of the concept of LO, a set of standards and specifications has been established which contribute to putting the concept into practice. These include, among others, standards for creating objects with a well structured educational content and standards for creating metadata, both of which are addressed in the body of this paper. Lastly, this paper provides a review of the current situation of the LOs in Colombia and abroad for the purpose of showing the progress they have had.