Lesson 6 Learning Platforms: LMSs, MOOCs, & Mobile

6-2 Learning more about LMSs

Most of the major learning management platforms give potential adopters access to sample courses, so you can log on to their server and experiment with their tools, user interface, and functions. Some of them also provide potential instructors with free course-building access, so they can test-drive what it feels like to build a class in their brand of “virtual classroom”.

One of the most obvious advantages of these platforms is their system of course management functions:

  • easy site creation and maintenance
  • quiz construction and administration
  • gradebook and record keeping
  • group and individual calendars
  • tracking/analytics.

You will look more closely at these features in the next course in this series.

Explore information about top LMS from over the years:

Think!

Take a moment to go explore a few LMS trials: like Blackboard (30 days free), Canvas (always free), Talent LMS (always free), or explore another solution.

How are they similar? How do they differ? What audiences are they designed for?

⭐Shar’s Note: Even a bad LMS is better than no LMS, but be wary if the interface reminds you of 1990’s design. At a minimum, the LMS you pick should have a discussion, quiz, and assignment/artifact drop-box.

License

ELID 510 Designing E-Learning Environments Copyright © by Professional and Continuing Education. All Rights Reserved.