What is an LMS?

In e-Learning discussions you will often see the acronym LMS - this stands for Learning Management System.  To quote the TAE Toolbox,

"A Learning Management System (LMS) is the infrastructure on and in which e-Learning can be developed and delivered.  It is an applications software package that contains instructional materials and content; and manages, tracks and deploys all learning across the RTO." (Flexible Learning Toolbox for Cert IV in TAE, "e-Space.") 

It is really just an online filing system for all of your course materials, with some meeting and communication tools for conducting activities, and tools for creating online assessments.  In effect, it is your online class environment.

In Western Australia, the Department of Training and Workforce Development provides us with access to the Blackboard LMS via WestOne, so it is free for us to use, but in fact would be very expensive for individual institutions to pay for themselves.

Blackboard is one of many LMS applications available.  Another one that many use is Moodle.  WestOne have provided us with a trial of Moodle but there is no guarantee it will remain available after the trial.

There are also many freeware LMS and other courseware or course authoring tools available.  Here is a link to a list of 25 different e-learning authoring tools available on the web. 

Top 25 Free E-Learning Authoring Tools

This list contains a range of tools that can be used to create click through learning tools and other ways of presenting content.

To Moodle or not to Moodle?

KTI has access to a trial Moodle site and I have dipped into it a little.  So far it seems quite similar to Blackboard and I haven't found any features in it that function any better or are additional to that offered by Blackboard.  If anyone is interested in having a trial space on Moodle, put your comments below, or email me and I will give you access.