Conformance Testing, the Elixer within the Chain for Learning Scenarios and Objects

The chain for learning scenarios and learning objects includes five iterative links: (i) development, (ii) publication, (iii) making resources searchable and reusable and (iv) facilitating their arrangement (v) towards a runnable unit of learning. The use of e-learning specifications and components-based systems preferably embedded in a service-oriented architecture are both conditio sine qua non for enabling this chain. However, some of the links are currently below optimal strength. To create a stronger more enduring chain, it must be easier to develop systems compliant to e-learning specifications and users must be better equipped to adopt such systems. Conformance testing(CT) facilitates this adop-tion, making CT the elixir within the chain for learning scenarios and learning objects. The role of CT within this chain is demonstrated by applying the CT-system from the Telcert project while addressing the strength and weaknesses of each link. Future implications for the chain and CT will be discussed.