INST 7150 - in context

"How is reusing and connecting learning objects with learners any different from reusing and connecting textbooks, research articles, and transparencies with learners?"
In my mind, there shouldn't be a difference, although if using the definition of learning objects solely as digital may create some additional accessibility that the others wouldn't have. Hmm... might have to think about that one some more.

"Is creating a meaningful context for learning object reuse any different from creating a meaningful context for reusing other educational materials, like book chapters or research articles?"
NO!
I would say not.
Or at least it shouldn't be.
If I had a java applet that showed some math concept, chances are pretty good that I could use it at multiple levels - for instance, 3rd grade, where the concept is introduced, where they get the big picture as to that concept, but they probably will not understand the smaller details. Then that applet could be used again, say in 5th grade - this time looking at more of the small details - such as the equations that go into that concept. It might be used again in 6th-or 7th grade - looking at other factors again, and then might be used in a programming class as an example of a java applet. Each time it is used in a different context and for a different purpose/learning objective.
The same could be said of a poem - where in lower grades, you might simply be looking at rhyming or the rhythm of said poem. In upper grades, you might get into word choice, structure, iambic pentameter, and in secondary or higher ed, you might be researching the background of the poet who wrote it to see how the word choice or the message/intent of the poem was a representation of that time period, or of events in the poets' life. Different context for each use of the poem.
(How's that for vague - can't think specifics at this time of night...)