Archived Reusable Learning Objects From the International Crop Research in the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) in Designing Online Teaching and Learning Activities

The Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) is engaged in research for development and plays an important role in mobilizing science to benefit the poor through its multiple centers and thematic programs. Additionally, the CGIAR centers are engaged in knowledge management and offer training for capacity building. The Learning Systems Unit of the International Crop Research in the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT, a unit of the CGIAR system located in Hyderabad, India) is engaged in innovative knowledge management in partnership with other world organizations such as the FAO and the World Bank. The virtual academy for the semi-arid tropics (VASAT) hosts learning modules on the production practices for its mandate crops (Pigeon pea, ground nut, chick pea, sorghum, pearl millet), as well as important topics such as organic farming that can be customized for the actual course and classroom needs. Topic maps on these mandate crops provide a comprehensive way of organizing and accessing knowledge on these crops. Additionally, the detailed descriptions of crop specific genetic and breeding procedures offer an in depth study suitable for courses in genetic engineering and biotechnology. Examples of the learning activities will be provided in specific online courses at Excelsior College, Albany, NY.