Factors Affecting the Development and Use of Learning Objects

This study explored barriers and facilitating factors affecting the development and use of learning objects in developing instructional materials and their use in supporting individualized learning. Over a two-month period, students in a graduate-level instructional design course developed instructional materials incorporating learning objects or developed learning objects in selected areas or disciplines. Qualitative analysis was conducted to explore students' experience and examine the skills and knowledge required to develop and use learning objects successfully. Through this analysis, three facilitating factors and nine barriers were identified. The authors conclude that the successful development and use of learning objects will be promoted by overcoming the barriers and strengthening the facilitating factors identified in this study.