Before you start creating an application that will be used in it’s learning, there are a few terms that you should be familiar with:
Learning Tool (application)
The application created by a developer that will run in a frame inside it's learning. A learning tool can create learning objects in a course in it's learning and will also let users view the created content.
Learning Object
The content. This is the common name that covers both Learning Resource and Learning Activity.
Learning Resource
This is a content based learning object. Examples are document and podcast. Learning resources are not given assessments or deadlines, and is more like “one-way” communication. A learning resource only uses read and modify permissions. (see "Parameters passed from it’s learning to the application").
Learning Activity
A learning object that may have deadline and assessment. For a learning activity some kind of communication between teacher and learner(s) is expected. Examples of learning activities are discussions, tests and assignments. A learning activity uses the permissions participate and evaluate in addition to read and modify. (see "Parameters passed from it’s learning to the application").
Learning Object Instance
A specific instance of a learning object. Because a learning object may be used in several different courses (see shared content (library)) , the instance identifies a unique place where the learning object has been used.