WO2010078613A1

WO2010078613A1 - Method of providing an educational activity file

Info

Publication number: WO2010078613A1
Application number: PCT/AU2009/000013
Authority: WO
Inventors: Craig James Dow-Sainter; Stephen Andrew Thomas; Kathryn Anne Symmons
Original assignee: Roar Film Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2009-01-07
Filing date: 2009-01-07
Publication date: 2010-07-15

Abstract

A method (100) of providing an educational activity file is disclosed. An activity creator application is executed (110) in the server. An educational activity template from a template archive is selected (120), via said activity creator application, with the selection step initiating a wizard. One or more media components from a media archive are selected (130), via the wizard. An educational activity file comprising the selected electronic activity template and the selected media components is generated (140). The educational activity file is then configured (150) as a compatible format adapted for downloading via the network, editing while the educational activity file resides in the server, and executing the educational activity file on a client terminal.

Description

METHOD OF PROVIDING AN EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY FILE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to online educational activities, and, in particular, to a method and apparatus for providing customisable educational activities.

BACKGROUND

Online educational activities offer a useful tool for students to engage with topics in a teaching curriculum. The students are required to actively participate in a task and to apply as well as acquire knowledge. However, existing online educational activities require the student to continually maintain an online presence (i.e. a connection with a central server), restricting when and where the online educational activities may be performed.

Furthermore, creating high quality online educational activities, which include one or more media components (such as video and audio), can be time consuming and labour intensive.

US Patent No. 6,535,713 issued on 18 March 2008 to Houlihan et al. describes a lesson authoring tool that provides a graphical interface for inputting and editing storyboards, from which a lesson file is generated. Developers create and edit storyboards describing each screen a student encounters along with references to the multi-media that will be presented when the student accesses that screen. Courseware developers also produce multi-media content and store the content on extended courseware storage device. A central training server downloads courseware comprising lesson files and multi-media content to a local courseware storage device. A lesson delivery system downloads the courseware, which is a lesson file, multi-media content, and a lesson engine from the local courseware storage device to a student workstation for interactive multi-media training.

However Houlihan does not permit downloading of the lesson so that the lesson can be interacted with, independent of the website. Also, Houlihan does not provide media archive or a similar feature for inclusion into the created lesson.

SUMMARY

In accordance with an aspect.of the invention, a method of creating an educational activity file in a server in a computer network is provided. The method comprises the steps of: executing an activity creator application in the server; selecting an educational activity template from a template archive via the activity creator application, the selecting step initiating a wizard; selecting one or more media components from a media archive via the wizard; generating an educational activity file comprising the selected electronic activity template and the selected media components; and configuring the educational activity file as a compatible format adapted for downloading via the network, editing while the educational activity file resides in the server, and executing the educational activity file on a client terminal.

The step of executing the activity creator application may comprise receiving an instruction from a client terminal via the network. The step of selecting the educational activity template may comprise receiving a request from a client terminal via the network.

The step of selecting one or more media components may comprise receiving a request from a client terminal via the network. The step of generating the educational activity file may comprise: inserting one or more selected media components into the educational activity template; inserting one or more metadata into the educational activity template; and inserting a title, an introductory page, an outline of student activity of the template, and a main body of the educational activity template.

The educational activity template may be a timeline activity, a curator activity, a filmmaker activity, a reporter activity, an author activity, a playmaker activity, a storyboarder activity, a collector activity, a copywriter activity, a presenter activity, or a mindmapper activity. The media components may be text, graphics, audio clips, and/or video clips.

The method further may comprise the steps of: downloading the educational activity file on the client terminal or another client terminal; and executing the educational activity file on the client terminal or another client terminal.

The compatible format may be a Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) compliant package.

The compatible format may be an IMS compliant package.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a method of executing an educational activity file in a client terminal is provided. The method comprises the steps of: providing an educational activity file on a client terminal downloaded from a server via a network, the educational activity file comprising a selected electronic activity template and one or more selected media components, the educational activity file configured as a compatible format adapted for downloading via the network and for execution on the client terminal; executing the educational activity file on the client terminal, the educational activity file adapted for execution on the client terminal if disconnected from the server via the network; and interacting with the educational activity file on the client terminal, the interaction comprises reviewing an introductory page, viewing one or more media components, and modifying the educational activity file.

The step of executing the educational activity file can be performed if connected to the server via the network.

The step of executing the educational activity file may comprise: reviewing the introductory page and defining the objective of the educational activity file; viewing one or more media components inserted into the educational activity file; and modifying the educational activity file to complete the objective of the educational activity file, wherein the modification comprises of writing text, inserting one or more media components.

In accordance with a still further aspect of the invention, a method of providing an educational activity file is provided. The method comprising: executing an activity creator application in the server; creating the educational activity file comprising an educational template and one or more media components, the educational activity file configured as a compatible format adapted for downloading and adapted for execution on a client terminal, the server and the client terminal coupled to the network; downloading the educational activity file on the client terminal via the network; and executing the educational activity file on the client terminal for interaction between a user and the educational activity file, the interaction comprising reviewing an introductory page, viewing one or more media components, and modifying the educational activity file.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for creating an educational activity file in a server in a computer network is provided. The apparatus comprises: a module for executing an activity creator application in the server; a module for selecting an educational activity template from a template archive via the activity creator application, the selecting step initiating a wizard; a module for selecting one or more media components from a media archive via the wizard; a module for generating an educational activity file comprising the selected electronic activity template and the selected media components; and a module for configuring the educational activity file as a compatible format adapted for downloading via the network, editing while the educational activity file resides in the server, and executing the educational activity file on a client terminal.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for executing an educational activity file in a client terminal is provided. The apparatus comprises: a module for providing an educational activity file on a client terminal downloaded from a server via a network, the educational activity file comprising a selected electronic activity template and one or more selected media components, the educational activity file configured as a compatible format adapted for downloading via the network and for execution on the client terminal; a module for executing the educational activity file on the client terminal, the educational activity file adapted for execution on the client terminal if disconnected from the server via the network; and a module for interacting with the educational activity file on the client terminal, the interaction comprises reviewing an introductory page, viewing one or more media components, and modifying the educational activity file.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention are described hereinafter with reference to the drawings in which:

Fig. 1 is a flow chart of a method of creating an educational activity file in a server; Fig. 2 is a flow chart of a method of executing an educational activity file in a client terminal;

Fig. 3 is a flow chart of a method of providing an educational activity file;

Fig. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a computer system with which the embodiments of the invention can be practiced;

Fig. 5 A is a schematic block diagram of a website that may be used to create an educational activity file;

Fig. 5B is a schematic block diagram of an educational activity file creator;

Fig. 6 is another schematic diagram of a website that may be used to create an educational activity file;

Fig. 7A is a flow diagram showing a method of creating an educational activity file using a timeline activity educational activity template by a user;

Fig. 7B is a flow diagram showing a method of executing an educational activity file created in accordance with the method shown in Fig. 7A; Fig. 8 A is a flow diagram showing a method of creating an educational activity file using a Reporter activity educational activity template by a user;

Fig. 8B is a flow diagram showing a method of executing an educational activity file created in accordance with the method shown in Fig. 8A;

Fig. 9A is a flow diagram showing a method of creating an educational activity file using a Filmmaker activity educational activity template by a user; and

Fig. 9B is a flow diagram showing a method of executing an educational activity file created in accordance with the method shown in Fig. 9A. o DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Where reference is made in any one or more of the accompanying drawings to steps and/or features, which have the same reference numerals, those steps and/or features have for the purposes of this description the same function(s) or operation(s), unless the contrary intention appears.

Fig. 1 shows a method 100 of creating an educational activity file in a server. Fig. 2 shows a method 200 of executing an educational activity file in a client terminal. Fig. 3 shows a method 300 of providing an educational activity file.

The method 100 may be intended for use by a teacher, while the method 200 may be intended for use by a student. The student may be in primary or secondary school. In an alternative implementation, the method 200 may be for several students, as a classroom activity. Such a classroom activity may be conducted using a data-projection device or an interactive whiteboard.

The method 100 enables teachers to create their own engaging and interactive content, provides a wide selection of ready made eLearning Modules available for immediate download, and.allows the teachers to output a large number of curriculum- based interactive eLearning Modules without requiring Content Developers. The method 100 may also be quick and simple to use. The method 100 may also offer teachers a curriculum-focused solution to value adding archival content. This may have relevance to the whole body of a school, across all age groups and curriculum areas, and promotes a sense of community and exchange amongst teachers.

The method 100 may further facilitate a simple way for teachers to create their own elearning activities that contain educational integrity (each specific activity template delivering an educational outcome), which are functionally robust, stimulating, and engage the students. Typically the method 100 may represent an excellent value for money proposition for a school or jurisdiction to subscribe as the cost of procuring off the shelf online or electronic content, or engaging a Content Developer, may be quite prohibitive. The methods 100, 200 and 300 may each be implemented using a computer system 400 of the type shown in Fig. 4. As seen in Fig. 4, the computer system 400 is formed by a computer module 401 , input devices such as a keyboard 402, a mouse pointer device 403, a scanner 426, a microphone 480, and output devices including a printer 415, a display device 414 and loudspeakers 417.

An external Modulator-Demodulator (Modem) transceiver device 416 may be used by the computer module 401 for communicating to and from a communications network 420 via a connection 421. The network 420 may be a wide-area network (WAN), such as the Internet or a private WAN. Where the connection 421 is a telephone line, the modem 416 may be a traditional "dial-up" modem. Alternatively, where the connection 421 is a high capacity (eg: cable) connection, the modem 416 may be a broadband modem. A wireless modem may also be used for wireless connection to the network 420.

The computer module 401 typically includes at least one processor unit 405, and a memory unit 406 for example formed from semiconductor random access memory (RAM) and semiconductor read only memory (ROM). The module 401 also includes a number of input/output (I/O) interfaces including an audio-video interface 407 that couples to the video display 414, loudspeakers 417 and microphone 480, an I/O interface 413 for the keyboard 402, mouse 403 and scanner 426, and an interface 408 for the external modem 416 and printer 415. In some implementations, the microphone 480 may be incorporated within the computer module 401. Also, in some implementations, the modem 416 may be incorporated within the computer module 401, for example within the interface 408. The computer module 401 also has a local network interface 411 which, via a connection 423, permits coupling of the computer system 400 to a local computer network 422, known as a Local Area Network (LAN). As also illustrated, the local network 422 may also couple to the wide network 420 via a connection 424, which would typically include a so-called "firewall" device or device of similar functionality. The interface 411 may be formed by an Ethernet™ circuit card, a Bluetooth™ wireless arrangement or an IEEE 802.11 wireless arrangement.

The interfaces 408 and 413 may afford either or both of serial and parallel connectivity, the former typically being implemented according to the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standards and having corresponding USB connectors (not illustrated). Storage devices 409 are provided and typically include a hard disk drive (HDD) 410. Other storage devices such as a floppy disk drive and a magnetic tape drive (not illustrated) may also be used. An optical disk drive 412 is typically provided to act as a non- volatile source of data. Portable memory devices, such optical disks (eg: CD-ROM, DVD), USB-RAM, and floppy disks for example may then be used as appropriate sources of data to the system 400.

The components 405 to 413 of the computer module 401 typically communicate via an interconnected bus 404 and in a manner which results in a conventional mode of operation of the computer system 400 known to those in the relevant art. Examples of computers on which the described arrangements can be practised include IBM-PC's and compatibles, Sun Sparc stations, Apple Mac™ or alike computer systems evolved there from.

The methods 100, 200 and 300 may be implemented as one or more software application programs 433 executable within a computer system(s) 400. In particular, the steps of the methods 100, 200 and 300 are affected by instructions in the software that are carried out within the computer system(s) 400. The software may also be divided into two separate parts, in which a first part and the corresponding software modules performs the described methods 100, 200 and 300 and a second part and the corresponding software modules manage a user interface between the first part and the user.

The software may be stored in a computer readable medium, including the storage devices described below, for example. The software is loaded into the computer system 400 from the computer readable medium, and then executed by the computer system 400. A computer readable medium having such software or computer program recorded on it is a computer program product. The use of the computer program product in the computer system 400 preferably effects an advantageous apparatus for implementing the described methods.

The software 433 is typically stored in the hard disk drive 410 or the memory 406. The software is loaded into the computer system 400 from a computer readable medium, and then executed by the computer system 400. Thus for example the software may be stored on an optically readable CD-ROM medium 425 that is read by the optical disk drive 412. A computer readable medium having such software or computer program recorded on it is a computer program product. The use of the computer program product in the computer system 400 preferably effects an advantageous apparatus for implementing the described methods.

In some instances, the application programs 433 may be supplied to the user encoded on one or more CD-ROM 425 and read via the corresponding drive 412, or alternatively may be read by the user from the networks 420 or 422. Still further, the software can also be loaded into the computer system 400 from other computer readable media. Computer readable storage media refers to any storage medium that participates in providing instructions and/or data to the computer system 400 for execution and/or processing. Examples of such storage media include floppy disks, magnetic tape, CD-ROM, a hard disk drive, a ROM or integrated circuit, USB memory, a magneto-optical disk, or a computer readable card such as a PCMCIA card and the like, whether or not such devices are internal or external of the computer module 401. Examples of computer readable ' transmission media that may also participate in the provision of software, application programs, instructions and/or data to the computer module 401 include radio or infra-red transmission channels as well as a network connection to another computer or networked device, and the Internet or Intranets including e-mail transmissions and information recorded on Websites and the like.

The second part of the application programs 433 and the corresponding code modules mentioned above may be executed to implement one or more graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to be rendered or otherwise represented upon the display 414. Through manipulation of typically the keyboard 402 and the mouse 403 , a user of the computer system 400 and the application may manipulate the interface in a functionally adaptable manner to provide controlling commands and/or input to the applications associated with the GUI(s). Other forms of functionally adaptable user interfaces may also be implemented, such as an audio interface utilizing speech prompts output via the loudspeakers 417 and user voice commands input via the microphone 480.

The methods 100, 200 and 300 may alternatively be implemented in dedicated hardware such as one or more integrated circuits performing the functions or sub functions of the method 100. Such dedicated hardware may include digital signal processors, or one or more microprocessors, associated memories, peripherals and displays. Examples of such dedicated hardware may include a telephone, a mobile telephone, a radio transreceiver, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a Blackberry™, a laptop or similar device.

Fig. 1 shows a method 100 of creating an educational activity file in a server. The server and one or more client terminals may be implemented using computers 400 of the type shown in Fig. 4. The method 100 may be implemented as software resident on the hard disk drive 410 and being controlled in its execution by the processor 405. Typically the educational activity file is created by a user, with the user already registered on the server. ' The user may be a teacher, for example. Associated with the user may be a digital portfolio section that may contain previously created educational activity in the server. Generally the digital portfolio section exists on the hard disk drive 410. Method 100 assumes that a correct username and a correct password combination have been received by the server.

The method 100 begins at step 110, where an activity creator application is executed in the server. The activity creator application serves as an interface through which the user can interact with the server. The activity creator application may additionally allow the user to access a media archive, which is described hereinafter with reference to step 130. Through this access to the media archive, they user may browse or download contents of the media archive. The user is located at a client terminal, which is typically external to the server. The server may be accessed over a computer network by the client terminal. For example, a teacher may access the server via the Internet using a web browser as a computer at the school with an Internet connection.

The processor 405 of the server executes the activity creator application upon receiving an instruction from the client terminal. Typically the server is connected to the client terminal via the local computer network 422. In another implementation the server is connected to the client terminal via a wide-area computer network 420.

At step 120 an educational activity template is selected from a template archive via the activity creator application, with the step 120 also initiating a wizard. The wizard is a separate software program from the activity creator application. The wizard is used in the following steps to assist in the creation of the educational activity file. The wizard may assist the user in populating one or more digital assets to create the educational activity file. The functionality of the wizard is dependent on the educational activity template selected from the template archive. Therefore, a unique wizard is associated with each educational activity template.

The educational activity template is selected by the server receiving a request from the user via the client terminal. The educational activity template can be a timeline activity, a curator activity, a filmmaker activity, a reporter activity, an author activity, a playmaker activity, a storyboarder activity, a collector activity,, a copywriter activity, a presenter activity, or a mindmapper activity.

Generally, the educational activity template is stored in the template archive. Typically, the template archive resides on the website along with the activity creator application and the media resources. In another implementation, the template archive already exists on the storage device 409 or on the optically readable CD-ROM medium 425.

At step 130, one or more media components are selected from the media archive via the wizard. One or more media components are selected from the media archive by the server receiving a request from the user via the client terminal. The media component may be a text, a graphic, an audio clip, and/or a video clip. Generally, the media components are stored in the media archive. Typically, the media archive resides on the website. In another implementation, the media archive already exists on the storage device 409 or on the optically readable CD-ROM medium 425.

At step 140, the educational activity file is generated via the wizard. The educational activity file comprises the electronic activity template selected at step 120 and one or more media components selected at 130. The wizard allows the user to edit and modify the educational activity template and thereby transform the educational activity template into the educational activity file. As previously described, the wizard may assist the user in populating one or more digital assets to create the educational activity file. The process of generating the educational activity file comprises inserting one or more selected media components into the educational activity template, inserting one or more metadata into the educational activity template, and inserting a title, an' introductory page, an outline of student activity of the template, and a main body of the educational activity template. The educational activity file can be previewed online, once that file is created, edited and/or downloaded.

The educational activity file further comprises one or more response areas. The user or another user, such as a student, may insert text or one or more media components into each response areas.

Referring back to Fig. 1, at the next step 150, the educational activity file created at step 140, is configured in a compatible format for various tasks. The various tasks comprise configuring the educational activity file in the compatible format adapted for downloading, editing while the educational activity file resides on the website, storing the educational activity file in the digital portfolio section, and executing the educational activity file on the same or another client terminal. The compatible format adapted for downloading via the network, and being able to execute the educational activity file on the same or another client terminal, may be a Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) compliant package format, an IMS compliant package format, or another suitable format. This facilitates downloading the educational activity file on the same or another client terminal, and being able to execute the educational activity file on the same or another client terminal, as a stand-alone file. Typically the client terminal contains a web browser with a Flash plug-in. The process 100 then terminates.

Fig. 2 is a flow diagram showing a method 200 of executing an educational activity file in a client terminal. The client terminal can be implemented using a computer 400. The method 200 may be implemented as software resident on the hard disk drive 410 and being controlled in its execution by the processor 405.

The educational activity file can be created in accordance with method 100 and downloaded onto the client terminal via the network. For the client terminal to download the educational activity file, the client terminal may need to provide authentication such as a username and a password combination. The educational activity file comprises a selected electronic activity template and one or more selected media components, with the educational activity file configured as a compatible format adapted for downloading via the network and for execution on the client terminal. The educational activity file is further adapted for execution on the client terminal, regardless of whether the client terminal is connected or disconnected from the server.

The method 200 begins at step 210, where the educational activity file is provided on the client terminal. The educational activity file can be downloaded from the server via the network. The educational activity file is downloaded upon receiving the instruction from the client terminal. Typically the client terminal is connected to the server via the local computer network 422. In another implementation the computer 400 is connected to the client terminal via the wide-area computer network 420. Typically the educational activity file is stored in the memory 406. In some implementations the educational activity file may be additionally stored in the hard disk drive 410.

At step 220 the educational activity file is executed on the client terminal. Upon execution, the educational activity file is displayed on the display 414. The educational activity file is adapted for execution on the client terminal if disconnected from the server via the network. At step 230 user interacts with the educational activity file on the client terminal.

This interaction comprises reviewing an introductory page which defines an objective for the educational activity file, viewing one or more media components, and modifying the educational activity file to complete the objective. The modification may comprise writing text, and inserting one or more media components into one or more response areas of the educational activity file.

Fig. 3 is a flow diagram showing a method 300 of providing an educational activity file. A server and one or more client terminals can each be implemented using a computer of the type shown in Fig. 4. The server and one or more client terminals are connected via a network, such as LAN, WAN, Intranet, or Internet. The method 300 begins at step 310, where an activity creator application is executed on the server.

At step 320 the educational activity file is created on the server. The educational activity file comprises an educational template and one or more media components. The educational activity file is configured as a compatible format adapted for downloading and adapted for execution on the client terminal even when the server, the client terminal, or both are disconnected from the network. For example, step 320 may be done by a user at a client terminal accessing the server using a browser via a network connection to the server.

At step 330 the educational activity file is downloaded to the same or another client terminal via the network.

At step 340 the educational activity file is executed on the same or another client terminal for interaction between the user and the educational activity file. The interaction comprising reviewing an introductory page, viewing one or more media components, and modifying the educational activity file. Processing then terminates. Fig. 5 A shows a schematic of a website 500 that may be used to create an educational activity file. The website 500 may provide a user, such as a teacher, with an ability to create a range of rich, customisable activity-based content. Through the website 500 the user could develop their own interactive educational activity file using a range of easy to use activity templates and content packages. The website 500 comprises a home page 502 through which the user needs to supply a correct username and a correct password combination. Once the correct username and the correct combination has been verified the user may then be able to access an educational activity file creator 504, (i.e. a software application) a browse archive 506, and a user portfolio 508 corresponding to the user. The educational activity file creator 504, the browse archive 506, the user portfolio 508 and the home page 502 are able to interact with each other.

The user portfolio 508 comprises an eLocker. The user may be able to browse the contents of their eLocker, arrange the contents of their eLocker by creating virtual folders and moving items from one folder to another, publish an educational activity file to the moderated educational activity file repository, view relevant metadata for the educational activity file and media assets, execute an educational activity file, and preview media assets (such as playing mp3 files and video files).

The website 500 may allow account management for the user. The user may create an account for themselves by entering details and confirming their email. The user may login to the website and authenticate against a native database of user accounts and privileges. The user may be able to retrieve a password, change a password, and update stored account. The website 500 also facilitates for a website administrator. The website administrator may view status of one ore more users, and view media assets and usage reports of the educational activity file. The website administrator can add one or more educational activity files to their repositories inclusive of metadata, and delete or deactivate resource from a repository.

The website 500 may comprise a media repository. Through the media repository the user could browse a repository of assets (typically mp3, jpg, mov files), search the repository using certain metadata criteria, view relevant metadata for asset, preview repository assets (e.g. play mp3, play movies, view large images), save repository assets to their eLocker, and download assets.

The website 500 may comprise of an educational activity file repository. Through the educational activity file repository the user could browse a repository of ready made educational activity files. Typically, these educational activity files would have been created by other users (moderated), or other third parties (such as RoarEducate), using an educational activity file maker. Additionally, through the educational activity file repository the user could search the repository using certain metadata criteria, view relevant metadata for the educational activity file, execute the educational activity file, can save the educational activity file to their eLocker, and download the educational activity file.

The website 600 may comprise an educational activity file maker . Through the educational activity file maker, the user could browse and preview a number of educational activity file templates, select a educational activity file template and launch its associated wizard within the educational activity file maker framework, output a SCORM compliant package complete with selected assets, framework, XML configuration file, saved to the eLocker, and download the educational activity file, immediately after build. Fig. 5B shows a schematic of the educational activity file creator 504. The educational activity file creator 504 interacts with a media library browser 510 and an educational activity template archive 520. The educational activity template from the Archive 520 can be a timeline activity, a reporter activity, a filmmaker activity, a curator activity, an author activity, a playmaker activity, a storyboarder activity, a collector activity, a copywriter activity, a presenter activity, or a mindmapper activity. The educational activity file creator 504 interacts with the educational activity template archive 520 via an API 504A of the creator 504. The media library browser 510 allows the user to browse a media archive 515, which contains a range of different assets (pictures, video, sound, text).

The educational activity file creator 504 allows the user to create the educational activity file by: 1) Browsing available media files, 2) Selecting the educational activity file, and 3) Following a Wizard to create a student brief, select, categorise and populate the template with the range of different assets stored in the media archive 515, and 4) output a SCORM compliant educational activity file 530 by using a SCORM formatting module 525. The wizard is specific to each educational activity template. At the end, the user can store the resultant (populated) educational activity file 530 within their dedicated eLocker (User Portfolio) 508. The user can download the educational activity file 530 to a client terminal or a Learning Management System at a school. From there, educational activity file 530 may be sent to the students. Fig. 6 shows another schematic of a website 600 that may be used to create an educational activity file. The website 600 corresponds to that shown in Fig.6B. Additional information about a client terminal ("user desktop") 610 is depicted. Also shown is a Public LO Archive 630. The client terminal 610 can access the creator application 504 and user online storage 508/530. The user desktop 610 can download via module 620 from the storage 508/530.

Fig. 7A is a detailed flow diagram showing a method 700 of creating an educational activity file using a timeline activity educational activity template by a user.

At step 702 the user selects the timeline activity educational activity template from the educational activity template archive. At step 704 the user reviews a timeline activity tutorial video, if required. At step 706 the user selects a "CREATE" button to execute a wizard associated with the timeline activity educational activity template.

Steps 708 to 716 are executed by using the wizard. At step 708 the user inserts a title to the educational activity template. At step 710 the user inserts an introduction page and an outline of student activity associated with the educational activity file. At step 712, the user browses the media archive and selects the different assets (pictures, video, sound, text) for inclusion into the educational activity template. At step 714 the user edits and/or writes text associated with the different assets (pictures, video, sound, text) selected at step 712. At 716 the educational activity file (learning activity LA) is created. Typically the educational activity file may be SCORM compliant package. At step 720 the educational activity file is downloaded by the user or another user.

Fig, 7B is a flow diagram showing a method 750 of executing an educational activity file (LA) created in accordance with method 700.

At step 752 the user or another user opens the educational activity file (LA) created in accordance with method 700. At step 754, the user or another reviews the student activity, as created in accordance with step 710. At step 756, the user or another user interrogates a timeline. At step758, the user or another completes the student activity associated with the educational activity file (LA).

Fig. 8 A is a flow diagram showing a method 800 of creating an educational activity file using a reporter activity educational activity template by a user.

At step 802 the user selects the reporter activity educational activity template from the educational activity template archive. At step 804 the user reviews a reporter activity tutorial video, if required. At step 806 the user selects a "CREATE" button to execute a wizard associated withΛhe reporter activity educational activity template. Steps 808 to 816 are executed by using the wizard. At step 808, the user writes

(inserts) a title to the educational activity template. At step 810, the user writes (inserts) an introduction page and an outline of student activity associated with the educational activity file. At step 812, the user browses the media archive and selects the assets (pictures, video, sound, text) for inclusion into the educational activity template. At step 814, the user edits and/or writes text associated with the different assets (pictures, video, sound, text) selected at step 812. At 816 the educational activity file (LA) is created. Typically the educational activity file may be SCORM compliant package.

At step 820 the educational activity file is downloaded by the user or another user. Fig. 8B is a flow diagram showing a method 850 of executing an educational activity file created in accordance with method 800.

At step 852, the user or another user opens the educational activity file (LA) created in accordance with method 800. At step 854, the user or another reviews the student activity, as created in accordance with step 810. At step 856, the user or another user views model newspaper report. At step 858, the user or another user interrogates the time line. At step 860, the user or another user saves images/text to a notebook associated with the educational activity file (LA). At step 862, based on the images/text saved to the notebook in step 860, the user or another user writes an article and includes images. At this step, the user or another user may optionally decide to return to step 858 or step 856 instead of proceeding directly to step 864. From step 862, the user or another user prints the educational activity file (LA) in step 864.

Fig. 9 A is a flow diagram showing a method 900 of creating an educational activity file using a filmmaker-activity educational-activity template by a user. At step 902, the user selects the filmmaker activity educational activity template from the educational activity template archive. At step 904, the user reviews a filmmaker activity tutorial video, if required. At step 906, the user selects a "CREATE" button to execute a wizard associated with the filmmaker activity educational activity template.

Steps 908 to 916 are executed by using the wizard. At step 908 the user inserts a title for the educational activity template. At step 910 the user writes (inserts) an introduction page and an outline of student activity associated with the educational activity file. At step 912, the user browses the media archive as selects the assets (pictures, video, sound, text) for inclusion into the educational activity template. At step 914, the user classifies groupings of the assets (pictures, video, sound, text) selected at step 912 into a vault. At 916, the educational activity file (LA) is created. Typically the educational activity file may be SCORM compliant package.

At step 920, the educational activity file (LA) is downloaded by the user or another, user. Processing then terminates. Fig. 9B is a flow diagram showing a method 950 of executing an educational activity file created in accordance with method 900.

At step 952, the user or another user opens the educational activity file (LA) created in accordance with method 900. At step 954, the user or another reviews the student activity, as created in accordance with step 910. At step 956, the user or another user selects one or more videos from the vault. At step 958, the user or another user sequences the videos as desired. At step 960, the user or another user adds, writes and sequences screen graphic text as desired. At step 962 the user or another user selects music/sound track and inserts the selected track into the educational activity file. At step 964, the user or another user plays the educational activity file (LA). Processing then terminates. The foregoing methods relating to an educational activity file, as described above, may alternatively be implemented in dedicated hardware such as one or more integrated circuits performing the functions or sub functions of providing an educational activity file. Such dedicated hardware may include graphic processors, digital signal processors, or one or more microprocessors and associated memories. Industrial Applicability

It is apparent from the above that the arrangements described are applicable to the computer and data processing industries. The foregoing describes only some embodiments of the present invention, and modifications and/or changes can be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention, the embodiments being illustrative and not restrictive.

In the context of this specification, the word "comprising" means "including principally but not necessarily solely" or "having" or "including", and not "consisting only of. Variations of the word "comprising", such as "comprise" and "comprises" have correspondingly varied meanings.

Claims

1. A method of creating an educational activity file in a server in a computer network, said method comprising the steps of: executing an activity creator application in the server; selecting an educational activity template from a template archive via said activity creator application, said selecting step initiating a wizard; selecting one or more media components from a media archive via said wizard; generating an educational activity file comprising said selected electronic activity template and said selected media components; and configuring the educational activity file as a compatible format adapted for downloading via the network, editing while the educational activity file resides in the server, and executing the educational activity file on a client terminal.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the step of executing said activity creator application comprises receiving an instruction from a client terminal via said network.

3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the step of selecting said educational activity template comprises receiving a request from a client terminal via said network.

4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the step of selecting one or more media components comprises receiving a request from a client terminal via said network.

5. The method according to claim 1 to 4, wherein the step of generating said educational activity file comprises: inserting one or more selected media components into said educational activity template; inserting one or more metadata into said educational activity template; and inserting a title, an introductory page, an outline of student activity of the template, and a main body of the educational activity template.

6. The method according to claim 1 to 5, wherein said educational activity template is chosen from the group consisting of timeline activity, a curator activity, a filmmaker activity, a reporter activity, an author activity, a playmaker activity, a storyboarder activity, a collector activity, a copywriter activity, a presenter activity, and a mindmapper activity.

7. The method according to claim 1 to 5, wherein said media components are chosen from the group consisting of text, graphics, audio clips, and video clips.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising the steps of: downloading the educational activity file on said client terminal or another client terminal; and executing the educational activity file on said client terminal or another client terminal.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compatible format is a Sharable

Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) compliant package.

10. The method according to claims 1 , wherein the compatible format is an IMS compliant package.

11. A method of executing an educational activity file in a client terminal, said method comprising the steps of: providing an educational activity file on a client terminal downloaded from a server via a network, said educational activity file comprising a selected electronic activity template and one or more selected media components, said educational activity file configured as a compatible format adapted for downloading via the network and for execution on said client terminal; executing the educational activity file on said client terminal, said educational activity file adapted for execution on said client terminal if disconnected from said server via said network; and interacting with the educational activity file on said client terminal, said interaction comprises reviewing an introductory page, viewing one or more media components, and modifying the educational activity file.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the step of executing said educational activity file can be performed if connected to said server via said network.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step of executing said educational activity file comprises: reviewing the introductory page and defining the objective of the educational activity file; viewing one or more media components inserted into the educational activity file; and modifying the educational activity file to complete the objective of the educational activity file, wherein the modification comprises of writing text, inserting one or more media components.

14. A method of providing an educational activity file, said method comprising: executing an activity creator application in the server; creating said educational activity file comprising an educational template and one or more media components, said educational activity file configured as a compatible format adapted for downloading and adapted for execution on a client terminal, said server and said client terminal coupled to said network; downloading the educational activity file on the client terminal via said network; and executing the educational activity file on said client terminal for interaction between a user and the educational activity file, said interaction comprising reviewing an introductory page, viewing one or more media components, and modifying the educational activity file.

15. An apparatus for creating an educational activity file in a server in a computer network, said apparatus comprising: means for executing an activity creator application in the server; means for selecting an educational activity template from a template archive via said activity creator application, said selecting step initiating a wizard; means for selecting one¹ or more media components from a media archive via said wizard; means for generating an educational activity file comprising said selected electronic activity template and said selected media components; and means for configuring the educational activity file as a compatible format adapted for downloading via the network, editing while the educational activity file resides in the server, and executing the educational activity file on a client terminal.

16. An apparatus for executing an educational activity file in a client terminal, said apparatus comprising: means for providing an educational activity file on a client terminal downloaded from a server via a network, said educational activity file comprising a selected electronic activity template and one or more selected media components, said educational activity file configured as a compatible format adapted for downloading via the network and for execution on said client terminal; means for executing the educational activity file on said client terminal, said educational activity file adapted for execution on said client terminal if disconnected from said server via said network; and means for interacting with the educational activity file on said client terminal, said interaction comprises reviewing an introductory page, viewing one or more media components, and modifying the educational activity file.