Shaping the coocoon: A model for wrapping learning contents on an e-learning platform

In disentangling edges and interpretation about the concept of learning object, pedagogists and computer scientists are still crossing their swords. Flexibility is opposed to standardization (i.e. strictness), context independence faces to portability, learning intent to accessibility and, finally, aggregation and granularity are not explicitly issued yet. Despite the widespread acceptance of standards, such as SCORM IMS Content Packaging, and of Learning Content management Systems, principles and practices in wrapping or splitting learning contents are not univocally ruled. Another complexity level arises from the wide use of platform tools done by users with the latest generations of LOs. The association between tools and content is addressed by Learning Content Management Systems (LCMS) in many different ways, trying to find a balance between flexibility and standardization issues. This paper presents a new model, called CoCOON (COntent Case Organizer for Objects Nesting), based on well-known IEEE and IMS standards, to manage complex aggregation mechanisms among LOs and to provide many association levels to relate LOs and platform tools. The model has been tested by implementing extensions and modules to an open source LCMS (ATutor) and implementing a whole course to be used in a Master Degree.