Learning objects and metadata understanding the field

Learning objects (LO) and learning object repositories are becoming widespread in various forms on the Internet. This paper explores the terminology and definitions of learning objects and the use of metadata providing a comparison of the different LO terminology and definitions that are in use. In particular the paper categorizes definitions: LOs that could be anything; LOs that could be anything digital; and digital objects that have been designed with an ostensible learning purpose or outcome; other LO definitions are specific to a single approach or proprietary standard like those of SCORM or Cisco´s RLOs.