An exploration of metadata, coming from the angle not of the markup of web pages but rather the relationship of metadata to learning objects. Coverage of the intricacies of metadata also an overview of learning objects, LORs, and the OSLOR (Open Source Learning Object Repository) project that Wintec is currently involved in along with a number of other tertiary providers, as well as showing the ReLOAD software, a Content Package and Metadata editor.

Also covered are the definition of metadata, different types, what markup languages are associated with it, the all-important development of standards. In particular,a look at Dublin Core and IEEE LOM, the interoperability between metadata schemes, libraries involvement in general with descriptive data, what the National Library of NZ is up in this field and also the Ministry of Education.

The presentation then discusses how, and in what ways, this “metadata”, in essence the description of learning object, can be used in applied settings. If we can agree learning objects should be reusable, be durable, be affordable, be searchable, be retrievable and be stored for others to use, we must reflect on how this can be done.