0.2 Authoring connexions modules related to timea  (Page 3/3)

Creating an exercise requires using CNXML (the Connexions mark-up language). In the example below,<exercise>is the top-level element; within it are the<problem>and the<solution>. The text for the<problem>and<solution>occurs within a<para>, or paragraph. Every tag must be nested properly, like a Russiandoll.

Style tips

Here are some suggestions for creating Connexions modules:

• Keep it concise. We encourage authors to adopt the Connexions philosophy and break up content into “chunks” ofknowledge that can be reused in different contexts.
• Make modules stand alone. Although you can organize modules into a course so that each one builds on what came before,keep in mind that readers will often access content at the module-level rather than the course level, so you can’t assume thatthey know what was discussed in previous modules. In addition, other Connexions users may wish to put your module into their owncourses, so it should be able to stand alone.
• Use concrete examples. Abstract concepts make more sense when they are supported by specific examples. We encourageyou to draw examples from the wealth of materials available through TIMEA. See “Bringing TIMEA Content into Connexions” forinstructions.
• Write clearly, even conversationally. It should go without saying that writing should be clear, but keep in mind thatConnexions attracts a diverse audience of students, scholars, and casual web surfers, many of whom adopt online reading practices(e.g. scanning the page). Some of the most effective Connexions modules are those that engage the reader in a sort of pedagogicaldialogue, explaining points and raising questions. See, for example, the work of Connexions author extraordinaire CatherineSchmidt-Jones, such as “ The Circle of Fifths ” (which is one of Connexions’ most popular modules).
• Make your title clear and descriptive. Since the title is the first thing that perspective readers see, it should givethem a quick sense of what the module addresses. Don’t include numbers in titles (i.e. “Part III of My Great Module”), sinceothers may reuse the module in their own courses, and since readers who aren’t aware of the other parts may be confused.

Intellectual property

If you do decide to produce a TIMEA module, you should be aware that you are deeding it to the Content Commonsunder the Creative Commons Attribution License . This means that other people can put your module into their own courses, reuse it in other contexts, and even sellit, so long as they attribute you as the author. Through this open approach to intellectual property, Connexions hopes to encouragecollaboration, foster education, and contribute to the growth of knowledge; we also hope that authors can build their reputations and enjoy the act of authorship. For more on the legalnitty-gritty, see Connexions’ IP (Legal) FAQ .