V4DL: VideoSat For Distance Learning
The e-learning platform for medical education
V4DL is a new-generation e-learning system specifically designed for medical contexts. The system is based on the following features: satellite transmission, edufiction videos and advanced Set-Top-Box
The edufiction methodology combines emotional and narrative-based learning with advanced technologies for visual stimuli. The lessons, which meet the official CME requirements (Continuous Medical Education), are distributed over satellite. The content is received on the Set-Top-Box and provides students with innovative learning experiences on a specifically designed e-learning application.
The following systems have been developed for and integrated into the project: the CME system, the push-based system to transmit lessons via satellite, the Set-Top-Box. This is an advanced Set-Top-Box equipped with a push client, a multimedia player and a video-based e-learning application designed for video interaction.
MBI's role
As a project partner, MBI is responsible for the development of the advanced Set-Top-Box, which is based on MBI's DINTV middleware. In particular, MBI has developed the client-side funcionalities required by V4DL, which have been integrated into the middleware and are available via a documented open API (Application Programming Interface). The functionalities include satellite communication, multimedia playing, the return channel and support to the client-side CME application, which has been developed for the project.
The Partners
V4DL is a project of ESA ARTES3 “Integrated Applications and User Terminals – 1st Issue 2005”. It started on 13 October 2005 with a total budget of 1,3 million Euro (50% financed) and lasted 16 months. The consortium consists of 4 partners: MBI Srl, OpenSky Italia (Pentastudio Srl), Kell Srl and Sfera Srl (Enel Group).