Open Learning Network

This research stream is created to provide information concerning the Smarthistory.org research project. The main objective of this research is to identify enablers and barriers in the creation and contribution of OER content to the site and to the OER community. It aims to also inform about useful and effective ways of using tools to create OER content that is both entertaining and enlightening for the student and the self-learner, but also supportive and informative for the teacher, instructor and practitioner. OLnet is closely collaborating with Smarthistory and currently conducting a survey concerning the above issues. What initiated this survey was an interview with founders Drs Steven Zucker and Beth Harris. Figure 1 shows the crucial points of the interview in thought bubbles.

                                                Figure 1 - Key points of the Smarthistory interview in thought bubbles

Figure 2 informs about what Smarthistory can offer the OER Community including; 1. An affordable development model; 2. Template for the humanities; 3. How to easily create multimedia; 4. Intuitive navigation; 5. How to create accessible, engaging content; and effective image-based learning.

       
                                                Figure 2  - What Smarthistory can offer the OER community