Authoring Tool based on Flash Technology for WebELS Learning System to Support Higher Education

摘要

This paper proposes an authoring tool for video-based learning content in the WebELS Learning system to support higher education. The main concept of the proposed system is synchronizing a video stream with the presentation slide since video-based content is becoming popular. Video content can consists of various multimedia types such as image, audio, animation and teacher actions. This tool can synchronize the video stream to each slide by means of video clip timing. To create content, video file (AVI, FLV, MOV, MPG, MP4, OGG) and presentation file (PPT, PPTX, ODP, SXI, PDF) are needed to be uploaded, and converted to FLV and PNG subsequently at the server. The system utilized the video timing position to control slide changing. We also developed cursor recording function based-on video clip timing. This function combines video clip stream with cursor actions. This system is divided into two modes: (1) editing mode, and (2) viewing mode. Editing mode is designed for instructors to create and edit the learning content. Editing tool can manage the slide information, cursor synchronization and so on. For viewing mode, it is used by instructors and learners to display learning content. Several useful functions are implemented for managing content, e.g., video and slide view toggle, zoom, etc. We used Flash technology and Red5 application to implement the proposed system, which can help instructors to create an attractive content for E-Learning system. The design also includes an easy-to-use user interface for non-IT or novice users.