e-learning Portfolio

RECAL

Creating computer-assisted alternatives using a sustainable learning objects approach

The mainstay alternatives to using animals in higher education are multimedia computer-assisted learning (CAL) programs simulating pharmacology practical classes. CAL development intrinsically ties the educational content and learning design to the authoring application. As technologies change, authoring applications become obsolete leaving redevelopment at further expense as the only option.

RECAL is developing methods and tools to break this cycle by disaggregating existing CALs to separate their constituent learning objects from its runtime environment. By basing this work on principles of standards, objects and reusability, the long-term viability of CAL alternatives has been improved and their adaptation by teachers to meet divergent learning needs has been facilitated.

50+ CAL programs disaggregated and revitalised
including 22 foreign language versions (Spanish, Traditional Chinese, Serbian and Romanian)
3700 discrete learning objects have been catalogued

RECAL is funded by the Lord Dowding Fund and is based at the University of Edinburgh.