Development of a visual e-learning system for supporting the semantic organization and utilization of open learning content

In an open e-learning content management environment, relation metadata is of benefit to improve semantic organization and reusability of learning content. Although the suggested relations defined in the SCORM and the extended relations proposed in the past studies can describe semantic relationships, there are some new requirements of semantic organization and utilization of open learning content. Based on existing models, this paper presents an extended relation metadata model for open knowledge communities. In order to help users to author and utilize the semantic relation, the visual authoring system named web-based visual authoring system for relation metadata (WVAS-RM) in the Learning Cell Knowledge Community is designed and implemented to assist the construction and utilization of semantic relations of Learning Cells. The paper presents an empirical evaluation of the teachers’ and learners’ acceptance and satisfaction of the proposed system using the adapted Technology Acceptance Model and System Usability Scale. The semi-structured interviews are also carried out with participants including teachers and students. It is concluded that students and teachers feel confident and satisfied with the system.