Functional Architecture of a Service-Oriented Integrated Learning Environment

A wide variety of tools and systems are used in the development and implementation of learning activities through e-Learning. While there are tools in learning management systems which can be used to implement a wide range of learning activities and develop a rich virtual learning environment, this is sometime insufficient and learning activities are also usually carried out not only within the learning environment, but also outside (for example, searching for information online, communication in social networks, self-reflection in blogs, retrieval and presentation of information in academic information systems, etc.) In this paper we argue that each of these activities should be integrated into a successive learning process through the development of a more integrated learning environment. A range of technological solutions for the development of integrated e-Learning environments already exists in the literature. However, the most appropriate solutions require further research and the development of integrated learning environments are still in the early stages. The aim of this paper is to present the functional architecture of the integrated learning environment that enables the implementation of a successive learning process using advanced learning methods. We will review technological solutions for the integrated learning environment based on existing academic literature. This will include an analysis of tools necessary to implement learning activities using advanced learning methods: personalised learning processes, and social communication and collaboration. The paper will also present the functional architecture of a service-oriented integrated learning environment. The architecture is flexible and reliable and can be easily extended. The development of the integrated learning environment is relevant for all educational institutions providing training services and seeking to improve the quality of learning.