K. Baker

Ontology supported competency system

Traditionally, representation of competencies has been very difficult using computer-based techniques. This paper introduces competencies, how they are represented, and the related concept of competency frameworks and the difficulties in using traditional ontology techniques to formalise them. A ‘vaguely’ formalised framework has been developed within the EU project TRACE and is presented. The framework can be used to represent different competencies and competency frameworks. Through a case study using an example from the IT sector, it is shown how these can be used by individuals and organisations to specify their individual competency needs. Furthermore, it is described how these representations are used for comparisons between different specifications applying ontologies and ontology toolsets. The end result is a comparison that is not binary, but tertiary, providing ‘definite matches’, possible/partial matches, and ‘no matches’ using a ‘traffic light’ analogy.

EXAMPLE USES OF A LEARNING OBJECT

A self study course for learning to program using the C programming language has been developed. A Learning Object approach was used in the design of the course. One of the benefits of the Learning Object approach is that the learning material can be reused for different purposes. Me course developed is designed so that learners can choose the pedagogical approach most suited to their personal learning requirements. For all learning approaches a set of common Assessment Learning Objects (ALOs or tests) have been created. The design of formative assessments with ALOs can be carried out by the Instructional Designer grouping ALOs to correspond to a specific assessment intention. The course is non-credit earning, so there is no summative assessment, all assessment is formative. In this paper examples of ALOs and their uses is presented together with their uses as decided by the Instructional Designer and learner. Personalisation of the formative assessment of skills can be decided by the Instructional Designer or the learner using a repository of pre-designed ALOs. The process of combining ALOs can be carried out manually or in a semi-automated way using metadata that describes the ALO and the skill it is designed to assess.