Monday, January 01, 2007

OpenSource eLearning XHTML editor (eXe)

In this fast pased world, knowledge rules and providing information to stakeholders using an accessible media is critical. Instructional Designers for Online Learning (IDOL) understand this all too well. Having access to reliable development tools is vital to both rapid design and universal deployment. This means, we need something to create structured content quickly and for a variety of delivery systems (ie, Bb, WebCT, Moodle, etc ...).

This where eXe can be a lifesaver. In addition to being FREE to use, it allows the user to customize the interface by accessing a feature called iDevices (instructional devices).

iDevices are a collection of structural elements that describe learning content. Examples of these include, objectives, pre-knowledge, case studies, free text. Learning content is created by selecting iDevices from the iDevice menu and entering your learning content.
Now, for the serious IDOLer out there, you have access to the raw files for five (5) styles that can be edited for your convenience. Add more if you like, but this provides a start for rapid development.

It gets even better, and this is my favorite feature. There is a version of this software which can be run on a USB flash drive without requiring any installation. The total file size is only 12.2mb. I should also mention that there is a Mac OS X version available as well.

A special thank you to the eXe development team - Jim, Sean, Matiu, Brent, and Jenny. You have made a great contribution to the field of Instructional Design for Online Learning!

... download the software here
... read the manual here

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