Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are dependent upon a set of elearning applications of which the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is only one element. The IMS Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) specification supports the seamless integration of elearning applications such as eportfolios, social networking areas and web-based peer assessment tools with VLEs leading to a more flexible, personal online learning environment for both teachers and learners. Linking such systems also overcomes some of the inefficiencies of using, managing and supporting separate applications such as improved notification of messages between systems leading to a more sustainable online learning environment. This project will draw upon case studies in three HEIs involving four different applications (both open source and commercial) to inform the continuing development of the IMS “Full LTI” specification which will support tighter integrations of elearning systems. This development will allow HEIs to respond to the emerging diverse needs of their users by integrating new elearning applications to VLEs whilst informing the ongoing reviews of their future VLE requirements. The deliverables of the project include enhanced IMS LTI connectors for four elearning applications which will be available free to the sector.

Creating Environments for Learning using Tightly Integrated Components (ceLTIc)

Overview

This project is using WebPA, Elgg, Learning Objects and PebblePad as examples of elearning applications (tool producers).  It is working in parallel with the development of the IMS LTI (Learning Tools Interoperability) specification to identify, implement and evaluate those integrations with a VLE (tool consumer) which are most useful to the users of each application.

Aims and objectives 

The primary objective of this project is to implement an extended form of IMS Basic LTI  connectors for a range of popular open source and commercial elearning applications (tool producers) to both identify priorities for providing tighter integrations with VLEs (or other tool consumers), and also help inform the IMS process as it further develops the LTI specification towards its goal of "Full LTI".

Project methodology

For each of the four tool producers, the project will engage with their user community to identify the integrations with the VLE which would be of most value.  These integrations will be developed for the tool producers and evaluated in a live teaching and learning situation.

Anticipated outputs and outcomes

This project will deliver integrations using Full LTI for WebPA, Elgg, Learning Objects and PebblePad for areas identified by staff as being most useful to each application.  This will provide users with a more seamless experience, make it easier for support staff to deploy the applications within their elearning environment and provide case studies to support the further development of the IMS LTI specification.

Technology / Standards used

IMS LTI (Learning Tools Interoperability)

Project Staff

Project Manager & Team

  • Dr Stephen P Vickers, The University of Edinburgh, Information Servicest: +44 131 651 4093, f: +44 131 651 3755, e: stephen.vickers@ed.ac.uk
  • Simon Booth, University of Stirling, eLearning Liaison and Development, t: +44 1786 467247, e: s.p.booth@stir.ac.uk
  • Susi Peacock, Queen Margaret University, Centre for Academic Practice, t: +44 131 474 0000, e: speacock@qmu.ac.uk

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Summary
Start date
1 July 2010
End date
31 December 2011
Funding programme
e-Learning programme
Strand
Distributed VLE programme
Project website
Lead institutions

University of Edinburgh

Partner institutions