Enabling Enhanced Learning in an Open University Environment: A Grid-Aware Architecture

摘要

Open and Distance learning has been extensively researched in the past few years, yet the focus was more in its technological dimension. The plethora of advanced tools supporting e-learning and the difficulties in their adoption in real situations has only demonstrated that the primary need is a paradigm shift in the educational model. In this work, we argue that this paradigm shift can be efficiently supported by a new computing model: the Grid. Grid computing facilitates knowledge construction and reuse in highly dynamic, distributed e-learning environments. An initial design of an e-learning Grid is presented for an Open University environment where new e-learning models, such as constructivism, can be efficiently supported.