Authoring a full life cycle model in standards-based, adaptive e-learning

The objective of this paper is to introduce a standards-based model for adaptive e-learning and to investigate the conditions and tools required by authors to implement this model. Adaptation in the context of e-learning is about creating a learner experience that purposely adjusts to various conditions over a period of time with the intention of increasing pre-defined success criteria. Adaptation can be based on an initial design, runtime information or, as in the aLFanet system, a combination. Adaptation requires the functionality to be able to interact with and manipulate data on the learning design, the users and the system and its contents. Therefore, adaptation is not an add-on that can just be plugged into a learning environment. Each of the conditions for adaptation have to be represented in a rigorous way. We will introduce a model based on a set of key learning technology standards that enables a structured, integrated view on designing, using and validating adaptation. For the author however, it appeared that the model is demanding both through the requirements imposed by the adaptation and the use of standards. We will discuss their experiences in applying it, analyse the steps already taken to tackle the complexity and come with additional suggestions to move forward to implementations suitable for a wider audience.