Semantic search and retrieval system for learning objects

In this paper, we propose a framework for semantic search and retrieval of Learning Objects (LOs) for e-Learning environments using open source software. The architectural design of the underlying model consists of four components designated as Author Interface, Learning Object Repository, Learner Interface, and Query Processing. The Author Interface is designed to provide facility for the creation, addition and deletion of Learning Objects. The Learning Object Repository stores the actual objects which may exist in different formats. The Query Processing module processes inputs related to information retrieval using keywords or phrases with Boolean conjunctions. This module parses the input to search through the ontology tree to discover any semantic matches. The proposed framework was tested on a number of Learning Objects in the domain of Computer Science. The test data is based on the multimedia electronic courseware developed by the research team in Computer Science Department, Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Pakistan. The test results show that the Query Processing module provides more accurate and relevant results compared with the retrieval scheme based on simple keywords that helps the instructors and students to get benefit in an e-Learning environment.