Developing a Comprehensive Model for Using Institutional Repositories in E-learning

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a comprehensive model of using institutional repositories of e-learning. The focus was on identifying the influential factors of the repository in e-learning.

Methods :

The present research is a qualitative study using the meta-synthesis method. In this research, the library method was used to collect data and information; and to analyze data the seventh-step process of Sadowski and Barroso for meta-synthesis was used. The research population of the study includes related studies (articles and dissertations) in the area of the role of the institutional repository dimensions in e-learning. The CASP evaluation checklist was used to ensure the quality of the studies. Finally, out of 129 retrieved studies, 28 titles were selected and then the thematic content was analyzed, coded, and categorized. Subsequently, quantitative research was carried out to validate the obtained model with the opinion of experts using the fuzzy TOPSIS technique.

Analysis of studies on the use of institutional repositories in e-learning led to the identification of 23 concepts, 14 categories and 6 components in this field. The main dimensions include data, metadata, search, retrieval, service, and resource component.

Considering that learning management systems are used in electronic education; however, they are often feeble repositories for educational purposes, and they cannot generate metadata for easy search of resources, the possibility of interaction, sharing, and reuse of the information. Although, it cannot be integrated with other learning management systems to provide access to more resources. Therefore, the repository can promote e-learning and expand the capabilities of the learning management system.