International collaboration in the development of Interactive Learning Objects in the Building discipline

Interactive Learning Objects (ILOs) (as described elsewhere at this conference by Carter et al (2005)) are discrete learning materials delivered to on-campus and distance learning students. ILOs are supplemented by other activities (for example, face-to-face / tele-tutorial / video conference interaction with a lecturer), which draw on the content of the objects, and focus students ’ attention and subsequent activities. The development of ILOs is a challenging activity for many reasons, the key one being that an appreciable number of these objects need to be prepared to meet the expectations of students once an innovative approach such as this is implemented. Loughborough University (UK) and the University of Newcastle (Australia) are collaborating in the preparation of Interactive Learning Objects (ILOs) for students in their ‘construction management ’ and ‘quantity surveying ’ undergraduate programs. These programs share a common basis, being accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building both in UK and Australia. Staff have been collaborating informally for some time, and have come to use the same software and delivery approach. Over the next two years, staff at Loughborough and Newcastle will develop ILOs that complement each other’s requirements. This will enable both institutions t