Guide to the Tutor Message format (v4) > Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

B. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

B.1.1. Do I need a <meta> element in every message?
B.1.2. If an element is required, can I just include it but leave it empty?
B.1.1. Do I need a <meta> element in every message?
B.1.2. If an element is required, can I just include it but leave it empty?

B.1.1.

Do I need a <meta> element in every message?

Yes, unless you are logging directly to an OLI log database using the OLI logging service—in this case, you never need to supply a meta element. The DataShop uses the context_message_id, the user_id, and the session_id to group the tool-tutor message pairs together with their context message.

B.1.2.

If an element is required, can I just include it but leave it empty?

No, required elements should not be left blank/empty. They are required for a reason.