A technical architecture for implementing apps in Learning Design systems

While the rise of mobile learning and apps has been a significant feature of educational technology in recent years, it can be difficult to create scaffolded sequences of different educational apps due to technical limitations arising from the structure of apps and app stores. These limitations can impede the creation of re-usable Learning Designs based on apps, so this presentation explores the nature of the problem and offers a new technical architecture for implementing apps in Learning Design systems. This approach is illustrated by examining the ways that apps can be adapted for use in the Learning Activity Management System (LAMS). The presentation draws on past LAMS research on the nature of a "tools contract" for integrating educational tools into Learning Design systems, and adapts this approach to the new opportunities and constraints of apps. The presentation concludes with recommendations for changes and extensions to the architecture of apps and app stores in order to better support Learning Design approaches into the future.