Learning Objective #1: Describe an online archive of Web-based teaching/learning modules and learning communities, MERLOT (Multimedia Educational Resource for Learning and Online Teaching)

Learning Objective #2: Generate and share applications for MERLOT in the undergraduate and graduate nursing curriculum as well as client education

---

Abstract: MERLOT (Multimedia Educational Resource for Learning and Online Teaching) is a consortium of over 25 institutions of higher education established in 1997 as an archive of web-based teaching materials. The concept has matured into a peer-reviewed repository of resources across disciplines for teachers who teach web-based courses. Users can search an archive of over 5000 learning objects which have been evaluated by peers and users. The 5-point rating scale measures ease of use, content quality, and possible impact on learning outcomes. Advance search options allow the user to find suitable materials based on subject area, type of material, age of audience, technical requirements, author, source affiliation, keyword, and review rating. The MERLOT system offers educators several benefits that will be discussed in this presentation. First MERLOT potentially reduces faculty workload when useable learning objects can be identified rather than developed. Second, there is a reduction in the time invested by educators in browsing through the plethora of online resources to find quality teaching materials because of the MERLOT evaluation process. Third, MERLOT offers authors the opportunity to have web-based modules peer-reviewed. A copy of a peer-reviewed could be included in a Promotion and Tenure decision. Fourth, educators could exhibit scholarly productivity by contributing peer or user reviews. Fifth, educators can participate in learning communities comprised of other instructors who teach web-based courses. Last, membership to individuals is free. In summary, the audience will learn about the MERLOT consortium and the benefits for educators teaching web-based courses or modules. Examples of MERLOT learning objects will be included and the audience will be invited to participate in an interactive exercise to generate potential applications to their clinical practice.