learning-brainstorming
Language Learning
When learning a new language, one of the core challenges is learning the meanings of many new words and phrases. Although there is more to language learning than pure vocabulary acquisition, a critical mass of vocabulary must be acquired in order to get anywhere.
In fact, a fairly modern approach to language learning that is becoming increasingly popular is commonly referred to as the "Lexical Approach":http://www.cal.org/resources/digest/0102lexical.html. The lexical approach is based on the idea that words and word combinations (such as collocations) constitute lexical chunks, which in turn serve as the "the raw data by which learners perceive patterns of language traditionally thought of as grammar (Lewis, 1993, p. 95)."
A classic format for learning vocabulary is the flashcard. A flashcard basically consists of a "cue," presented in the target language (language being studied) and a "response," presented in the source language (often, but not necessarily, the native language).
While learning the meanings of the most common words and phrases is important, a variety of additional knowledge is needed, including the pronunciation of the word or phrases, as well as examples of how it is commonly used.
There are a variety of online learning systems, ranging from simple Flashcard applications to Computer Assisted Language Learning suites that provide more than a simple cue and response. They utilize rich media like sounds, images and video to help enhance both the memorization process, as well as to provide the additional knowledge that is needed to make use of a given vocabulary item.
One of the primary purposes of this microformat is to represent this rich media so it can be openly exchanged between different learning systems. For example, if a person has learning a lot of French words in a specific online learning service, he is essentially building up an online brain there. That learning service and others will benefit when there is an open exchange between learning items and the user can take his brain wherever he wants.
Describing a Learning Concept
When learning any new concept, whether a toddler learning ABCs or a college student studying quantam physics, there are small tips, "aha" moments, perhaps learning games that can be shared. Also references to resources specifically in the context of learning a given concept. What seems important is the ability to link a small bit of text, rich media, or resource description to a specific learning concept. If this vocabulary describes learning concepts, then we can use other formats to make the link to the media/text/resource.