The Spiral-In Method for Designing and Connecting Learning Objects

Abstract

This work presents a method that provides adaptive support to those engaged in learning activities. It proposes a way for acquiring content knowledge in a specific domain by using Learning Objects (LOs) and suggests a pattern for designing and connecting these LOs for the creation of a course. The Spiral-in Method (SiM) encloses pedagogical and didactic potentials, addresses issues on both the educator and the group learners and implements personalized mechanisms. This methodology structures the design process into four distinct phases, fragmentation, coordination, combination and grouping. The starting point for this conquest to knowledge is estimated through the decomposition of a subject matter, combined with a series of questions that (1) set the goals and the preferences of the learners and (2) extract information about their prior knowledge on the subject matter. According to the answers given, LOs are created and connected in a linear structure, like a spiral. The LOs are grouped together into lessons attempting to satisfy short-term learning outcomes. The spiral has to be fully wrapped for the possession of the subject matter.