Abstract:

The European Higher Education Interoperability Framework, developed in response to the Digital Education Action Plan, proposes seamless digital teaching and learning across European borders. Achieving this vision requires educational software platforms that support standardized communication and integration into heterogeneous digital ecosystems. Qualifications-Based Learning (QBL) extends competency-based education by requiring learners to achieve Competency Qualifications (CQs) offered by accredited institutions. The Qualifications-Based Learning Model (QBLM) formalizes this approach.

However, former prototypical implementations of QBLM were based on monolithic architectures with tightly coupled components. The lack of standardized communication interfaces restricted interoperation and reduced the ability to integrate with established learning software such as Learning Management Systems. The resulting incompatibility with external educational platforms impeded participation in heterogeneous digital ecosystems and secure access control across organizational boundaries. To overcome these limitations, a communication concept for QBLM Platform Software in a containerized environment is required. The concept must address internal microservice communication, external integration with digital ecosystems and communication between Remote QBLM Platform instances.

Following Nunamaker's multi-method methodology, this paper first observes state-of-the-art communication approaches and existing implementations, then conceptualizes a multi-layered communication model, implements a prototypical realization, and evaluates its functionality.

The resulting communication concept comprises three layers. Internal communication employs REST APIs and event-driven architecture to achieve loose coupling between microservices such as Competence Management and Competence Profile Management. External communication enables interoperability through standardized interfaces for integration with Learning Management Systems and cross-platform synchronization with remote QBLM Platforms. A dedicated security layer implements token-based authentication and role-based access control to ensure secure communication across all interfaces.

The paper demonstrates by an exemplar prototypical implementation that the proposed communication concept resolves technical challenges such as decoupling, interface standardization, and secure access control. Learners and instructors gain access to interoperable learning tools that can seamlessly exchange competence data across institutional boundaries. Organizations benefit from a modular, extensible platform architecture that integrates with existing educational infrastructure.

Evaluations through cognitive walkthroughs and integration tests validate the concept. These results provide a foundation for an interoperable QBLM Platform supporting Europe-wide student mobility and virtual campuses. In consequence, CQs can be shared and recognized across organizational boundaries, enabling cross-institutional collaboration in distance education.

Keywords:

Qualifications-Based Learning, QBLM, interoperability, communication concept, microservices, containerization, REST API, access control, distance education, educational technology, digital ecosystem, learning platforms.