THE CLAS NETWORK: A FREE DIGITAL LEARNING PLATFORM FOR CONTENT REPOSITORY, LEARNING MANAGEMENT, NETWORKING, AND COLLABORATION

Year 2016, Volume: 5 , 160 - 165, 01.09.2016

James Lipuma Jeremy Reich Lawrence Mayalil

Abstract

Modern communications technology empowers educators to
reach learners more effectively, efficiently, at a higher volume, and with a
greater potential for differentiation. The mixture that results from this combination
of innovative teaching and modern technology facilitates digital learning. The
New Jersey Institute of Technology's (NJIT) Collaborative for Leadership,
Education, and Assessment Research (CLEAR) is currently developing a free
digital learning platform to address the growing need for a solution that can
house the growing array and sophistication of digital learning objects and
materials. This platform, known as the Curriculum Learning and Assessment
Studies (CLAS) Network, funded through a grant from the Roche Foundation, is
designed both as a repository of vetted educational materials and a networking
tool that connects all educational stakeholders. Central to the design of the
CLAS Network is the combination of features from content repositories, Learning
Management Systems, and networking and collaboration tools. These features
include the ability to find or contribute learning objects, instructionally
design collections of contributions for a variety of educational applications,
and connect with other educational stakeholders in groups, forums, and blogs.
Currently, the CLAS Network is completing the testing phase of development.
Thus the authors will present its current features and functionality. There is
also a suite of additional improvements which are planned and will be
discussed. Input from colleagues on the current state of the CLAS Network, as
well as suggestions for further improvement, will be solicited.

Keywords

Learning object repository, digital learning, network, collaboration

References

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