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1 Purposes
2 Information
3 Architectures
4 Mapping
5 Transforming
6 Transferring
7 Feedback
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6 Transferring the information between interoperating systems

In cases where the whole of the learner information is being transferred at once, the information could be transformed into the standard XML representation and then stored as a file by the learner. The learner could present this at the new institution, where it could be uploaded. However, that would give plenty of scope for loss, error, or other hazards. Equally, transferring information between systems interoperating on a daily basis is difficult to envisage in this way. Some automatic method is desirable or necessary for these reasons.

Approaches to transferring the information

Do-it-yourself

There are sufficient standards available so that it is perfectly possible to arrange transfer of information using open standards, given staff with the required technical competence.

Please see the Powerpoint presentation by Scott Wilson on Implementing Web Services.

The ioNodes architecture

The ioNodes architecture is being sponsored by the JISC as a solution for the SHELL project, and as one approach to the wider question of transfer of records for Lifelong Learning. The ioNodes architecture uses SOAP.

See the MS Word document, "ioNode: A Framework for Interoperability"
and the related presentation by John Bigerstaff.

Integrating transformation and transfer

In an integrated approach, when a transfer request has been made and checked for authorisation and validity, the transformation may then be done. This will require integration of the software. The ioNodes architecture envisages this integration in terms of a local "ioAgent", which controls the process at whatever level of system is interoperating.

If you are a members of one of the JISC MLEs for Lifelong Learning projects, we are here to support you. For general and non-technical matters, please contact the Centre for Recording Achievement. For technical questions you may contact Simon Grant directly.

Please also send suggestions for additions or improvements to this page or site to Simon Grant.

Revised 2004-02-01 07:39:28