Introduction to LMS

LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (LMS)

What is a Learning Management System (LMS)?

An LMS is a software application used in the administration, reporting, documentation,

tracking, automation, and delivery of online education and training programs. It enables
organisations and educational institutions to create and manage lessons, courses, quizzes and
other training materials. The LMS also enables institutions to deliver training materials and
lessons to employees, students or partners.

Learning management system can also be defined as a software application that provides the
framework that handles all aspects of the learning process; it’s where you house, deliver, and
track your training content. While most often called an LMS, other names that might be
used is training management system, learning activity management system or even learning
experience platform (LXP).
A learning content management system (LCMS) sometimes gets confused with an LMS as
well.

An LCMS is software that is used to author and manage learning content. The two systems are
complimentary to one another but not the same.

An LMS is designed to make life easier for those in charge of training and development
e.g., identifying and assessing individual and organizational learning goals, tracking progress
toward meeting those goals and collecting and presenting data for supervising the learning
process.

A learning management system, (LMS) is a software that is designed specifically to create,

distribute, and manage the delivery of educational content.

The LMS can be hosted as a stand-alone product on the company server, or it can be a cloud-
based platform that is hosted by the software firm.

Choosing the most suitable learning management system for your organization is based on a
number of criteria and requires your attention as well as money. When deciding between which
LMS solution to pick, you will encounter a choice between two main types of LMS i.e. Open
Source LMS and Cloud LMS. To decide you will need to consider a variety of factors like
features, the difference in their pricing model and mode of deployment, and which one is the
most cost-efficient one.

There are two main categories of LMS i.e.;

- Open Source LMS

- Cloud Based LMS

Open Source LMS

Like the name suggests, an Open Source LMS has an open source code that you can access for
free, and customize it according to your specific requirements. The most popular example of
an Open Source LMS is Moodle which is a feature-rich platform with community support.
Though originally designed for academia, Moodle has found its use-cases in corporate learning
as well. Moodle can be customized and extended to suit various learning environments by using
community-sourced plugins.

Cloud Based LMS

Cloud LMS is a web-based LMS hosted on the servers of the service provider (vendor). It is
offered as a completely managed Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). You can subscribe to the
software and can access it from anywhere and any device. Users can log in with a username
and password and can either access the content online or download the e-learning course
material for offline usage. Cloud LMS provides more flexibility in scaling up or down and
since it is a hosted service, you are free from the hassles of installing plugins, troubleshooting
or making updates. All the maintenance is done by the service provider themselves.

Categories of Learning Management Systems (LMS)

There are several types of learning management systems that organizations can choose from,
check the comparison list:

1. Enterprise vs. Individual

2. Free vs. Commercial

 3. SaaS vs. Licensed Product

4. Cloud-based vs. On-premise

5. Integrated

6. Built-in Authoring Tools or Pre-Written CMS

#1: Enterprise vs. Individual

Enterprise grade learning solution

At the highest level, an enterprise learning solution is generally customized for a large company
of 500 or more employees. It’s highly scalable and can be designed to grow with the company
and as new courses are added. Oftentimes, an enterprise LMS has a huge list of built-in features
to fulfil any needs that may be required.

Individual LMS

An individual or small organizational LMS may offer few or all the features available, but
limits them to what an individual course producer may need. However, this can serve the small
organization or individual person to produce various learning materials.

Often LMS providers offer different subscription plans to fulfill different needs, so a small
organization can utilize the LMS for its needs, and for an appropriate price.

#2: Free vs. Commercial

Free LMS

There are also dozens of free, open-source eLearning products for individuals to build courses
for their learners. Anyone who has knowledge can deploy it and create a course that can be
accessed via an e-learning environment. Many free LMS also offer advanced levels and a big
list of available features. The main problem of a free LMS is that they don’t have the level of
support that some users are accustomed to. You need to know how to deploy it or hire a
specialist for that. Platform updates will require your attention and time, and do not always go
smoothly.

Commercial

A commercial product is designed to be used by any organization, a college or university, or

another educational primary organization. It’s generally easy to deploy and it has 24/7 support.
It also comes with a price tag depending on the level of required features. Mostly commercial
platforms need frequent updating, but they also provide an increasing list of available features,
so you always will be using the most modern hi-tech e-learning solution.

#3: SaaS vs. Licensed Product

SaaS LMS

Perhaps the most popular model for an LMS, is the service as a software (SaaS) model.

It’s a ready-out-of-the- box solution that’s easy to deploy. Usually its Cloud-based, and
includes frequent free upgrades.

While it can be somewhat limited in customization, an SaaS LMS is perfect for the organization
that’s growing because it’s scalable over time.

Technical support is generally included for the entire use period.

Licensed Product

A licensed learning management system can offer the ultimate in customization, customer
support, and reliability for users.

It is more flexible and built to each customer’s specifications, which may take some time. It
can be installed on a cloud server or on-premise.
Implementation can happen when the organization chooses, but updates may take more time.

The largest cost is the user license; however, licensed products win in a long distance,
especially if they are implemented as a cloud-based solution. This makes the cost of ownership
and cost per user significantly lower as compared to SaaS solutions. Support can be limited by
time or included as a premium paid add-on.

#4: Cloud-based vs. On-premise

Cloud-based LMS

A cloud-based LMS is hosted on a secure off-site server and allows users to access the product
using a variety of computers and mobile devices, even offline using an app.

It can include many of the most popular features that learners expect.

A cloud-based LMS is much more scalable as compared to an installed version.

On-premise LMS

Built as a stand-alone product, the on-premise LMS is a licensed product built and installed to
the organization’s specifications on the server of their choice.

It can be limiting, on a big scale you have to use several servers. A cloud-based installation can
be more cost-effective in some cases. On-premise installation maintains user and corporate
data on a highly secure basis.

#5: Integrated

Modern LMS takes into consideration the existing software and systems that the organization
has in place, then blends in with them for a seamless user experience. Integration involves
connecting the LMS with other compatible products to enhance the learner experience. Of
course, the organization may choose to keep the learning management system completely
separate from all other systems and products. However, this disables some of the opportunities
that this integration can involve.

#6: Built-in Authoring Tools or Pre-Written CMS

Built-in Authoring Tools

Most modern LMS includes content authoring tools or supports The Experience API/xAPI
(or SCORM) standard and allows developers to upload already created courses and lessons
from authoring tools or LCMS/CMS.

In general, courseware developers prefer having access to built-in authoring tools that enable
full course creation and revisions.

In most cases, even pre-authored content can be included and new modules, exercises, learning
documents, assessments, and more can be integrated.

Pre-Written CMS

Often confused with LMS, a content management system (CMS) is a different product.

However, a CMS can be used to house some learning materials and project documentation.

It can also be a good place for L&D teams to work out course design well ahead of the roll out
of real courses.

However, it is no substitute for an LMS. Pre-written course lessons can be developed here and
imported into the LMS at a later date.

Uses of LMS

In most cases, organizations use an LMS system to facilitate access to learning materials that
range from written materials and presentations to videos and interactive lessons.
The LMS should be able to:

1. Provide learning experiences that are adapted to individual learners

2. Make it easy for instructors to make notes and changes

3. Give instructors and students the opportunity for online collaboration

4. Integrate common tools such as calendars, word processors, and more

5. Create a corporate culture-sensitive, branded presence for learners

6. Include insights into user progress through built-in analytics

7. Be able to scale globally as the organization grows

The modern learning management system often has built-in tools and resources that help
administrators to develop course lessons, activities, and assessments. Administrators can assign
new user credentials and schedule courses to be completed. They can also track learner progress
with reporting features.

A good LMS helps to make learning interesting, engaging learners so they take a more active
role in their own development. An LMS should be simple to access and use in order to
encourage learners to participate. The design of the LMS should be friendly in appearance and
functionality based on user requirements.

LMS Features

Most of the learning management software that is available today has features that appeal to
different segments of the user population. For example, a Zetech University platform will be
vastly different than a corporate adult learning product.

An online learning management system, which is often referred to as e-learning or virtual

learning, can provide the greatest features as well as cost savings. It’s important that
organizations carefully choose the right eLearning software features for their long-term needs.
Learning Management System features may include:

• A central user portal for all users, administrators, and course creators to securely login
and complete tasks.

• Experience API (Tin Can API) compliant content management system built-in for
authoring content and adding elements.

• LMS training system that involves event management and scheduling capabilities that
direct users through specific learning plans.

• Certificates, learning badges, and profiles that learners can share to prove their
knowledge.

• Automated test scoring and performance management systems based on user behaviors.

• Live classroom and webinar environments for remote instructors and students, client
presentations and more.

• Technical and course development support, including built-in tutorials and lesson plans.

Benefits of LMS

Using a learning management system can provide many benefits for an institution. The ultimate
goal is ensuring that all learners are treated to an experience that honours their learning style.
However, at the same time, institutions must justify the costs and time invested in this effort.

Key Benefits of Learning Management Systems Software

As a whole, learning management systems help to streamline learning activities in any

Institution.

The general benefits of learning management systems include:

1. Access learning on the go

Easy accessibility via any mobile device to capture opportunities for learning
 2. Flexibility in learning pathways
Ability to set up specific learning pathways for students and training plans for adults
3. Use a variety of learning materials
Bringing together learning materials from a wide range of sources, from MOOCs to
user-shared materials
4. Analyse learning patterns
Analytics that provide a progress report of every user and proof of knowledge
5. Learning Automation
Automation of many learning processes, including scheduling, invitations, and
follow-up support

Advantages of LMS Systems for Business

Each business will have different objectives and reasons for choosing an LMS system for
internal training.

There are generally several layers of LMS use within businesses, including: employee
onboarding and job training, customer education, and professional leadership development.

All of these areas may approach the use of the LMS in a unique way, with courses and learning
content design aimed at each group.

Many times, due to globalization, an LMS may be the only option because traditional
Instructor-led training (ILT) does not reach all employees where they live and work.

1. Some of the benefits of LMS systems for business versus other learning formats can
include, but are not limited to:

2. Secure corporate training

Secure sign-on for keeping corporate training and processes private only to those who
need access
 3. Fast compliance training
Faster and more streamlined employee compliance training with annual proof of
completion

4. Cost-effective
Cost savings over other formats of training due to less travel, no outside paid trainers,
etc.

5. Equal training for all subsidiaries

Consistency of learning materials and concepts across multiple worksites and regions

6. Continuous employee development

Improved employee performance with regular access to learning and skill building

7. Adaptability of learning materials

Ability to adapt and align training efforts to the organizational needs over time

8. Find the most effective learning activities

Employee progress through structured learning can be monitored and incentivized

9. Compliant to private information policies

Security of user private information and course progress within the LMS

Benefits of LMS in Education

If the learning management system is to be used as part of any other educational program, for
example a college or university, or another level of training; there are many advantages of
choosing an LMS over instructor-led training.

The use of technology in the classroom has led to a wave of more LMS in education. Today’s
learner has many more opportunities to grasp important concepts with a focus on their
individual learning style. An interactive and responsive LMS can facilitate this more modern
format of learning in any educational setting.
The advantages of LMS in any educational setting can include:

1. Teachers can use established pedagogical models to deliver more personalized lessons
and increase the engagement level of students

2. Students respond well to micro-learning and the LMS is a perfect platform for
facilitating this format of learning

3. Students can learn on their own via computers, laptops, and mobile devices to keep
learning alive 24/7

4. An LMS increases the flexibility and creativity of the learning materials, which
enhances the student experience and encourages shared collaboration

5. Student progression through lessons and assessments becomes more self-driven —

tapping into the natural way humans learn

6. Artificial intelligence and automation make administration of learning materials easier

for instructors, freeing up their time for other teaching opportunities

How to Select the Best LMS for Your Institution?

Now that you have a good overview of what a learning management system is and the various
benefits and features offered, it’s important to understand how to choose the best LMS for your
organizational purposes.

#1 Measurable results

Investing in a learning management software for your organization often comes down to how
quickly you can measure real results. If it’s for business purposes, for example to train
employees, being able to quickly and effectively produce high levels of proficiency matters.

These results should be displayed for users (as in completion rates, steps towards goals) as well
as administrators in terms of completed modules, scores, and the connection to corporate
objectives.
#2 Accessibility and User-friendly Design

A major issue that can make or break a learning management system is when there are
accessibility issues for users. The sign-on process should be simple and secure. The home
screen should be intuitive and include the information that a user needs to start completing
courses.

In addition, tools such as AI and chatbots can enable learners to search for and find new course
suggestions matched to their interests. This is especially important when working with younger
people or multi-generational learners who may not be accustomed to the latest formats.

Fonts and layout of content should be in a user-friendly design, and all text needs to be
translatable to other language types and 508 compliant.

#3 Adaptability

Today, learners need to be able to take their learning on-the-go. Therefore, a multi-device LMS
can ensure that learners can access their courses and pick up where they’ve left off anytime it
suits them.

With a vast majority of the population accessing the Internet via mobile devices now
worldwide, the LMS you choose must be able to work well on a variety of operational systems,
browsers, and screen sizes.

#4 Secure data management

When an organization wants to develop and manage courses, a secure LMS platform is a must.
Not only is course data proprietary in nature, but the information of all users needs to be
protected.

Only select an LMS that has a single sign-on process (SSO) and maintains information behind
added layers of security linked to user privileges. This is especially important when using a
cloud-based server to house data.
#5 Support response and training

Before deciding on the best LMS for your organization, consider that there will be times when
live customer support will be needed. This often happens during implementation and
integration phases, but it can arise anytime.

New users will also need access to tutorials on how to use the learning management product.

Ask about support for after hours for those who may be using it in other time zones.

Final Thoughts on LMS

Evaluating an LMS takes deep analysis of all the features and benefits each one provides. This
is a difficult decision because it’s something that will require a long-term commitment.

Look for an LMS that is built with the future in mind.

This should be evident from reading through the description of the product, and learning more
about the company and where it’s headed.

Gather information from client testimonials as well as awards that the company has received.

Find out what the leadership team’s background is and what they are passionate about in the
learning industry.

All of the above information should help you make a case for selecting and investing in a
reputable learning management system for your organization’s needs.
LMS TOOLS

Online education has grown in popularity and accessibility, attracting students with its
schedule-friendly format options. These formats can be grouped broadly into two categories:
synchronous and asynchronous.

Synchronous learning is online or distance education that happens in real time, often with a
set class schedule and required login times.

Asynchronous learning does not require real-time interaction; instead, content is available
online for students to access when it best suits their schedules, and assignments are completed
to deadlines. Programs can also use a hybrid learning model, which includes a blend of both
formats.

SYNCHRONOUS TOOLS

The main idea behind synchronous learning is that students learn simultaneously and
collectively. In other words, synchronous learning represents the dynamic of the traditional
classroom, where classwork is ‘live’ and undertaken as a group. Just because traditional classes
use a synchronous learning style, however, does not mean that synchronous learning should be
thought of as ineffective or outdated. Developments in eLearning technology mean that the
digital environment is more suited than ever for synchronous lessons. LMSs such as Moodle
allow students to engage in collaborative face-to-face activities, despite not being in the same
room.

Real-time learning gives students an opportunity to connect with peers and instructors face to
face. Live teaching via video stream can also replicate the feel of an in-class environment,
where instructors and students are present in the same place at the same time.

Here are some ways to incorporate synchronous teaching into your online course and some
educational app tools for each topic.

1. Use synchronous teaching tools to build connections

2. Provide support via online tools
3. Facilitate small group discussions via video and instant messaging apps
4. Offer your students multiple assessment options
Assignment #1
As a teacher in your areas of specialization you are required to come up with a PowerPoint
presentation on the following video conferencing tools;

1. Google Meet
2. Microsoft Teams
3. Zoom
4. Big Blue Button
5. Cisco WebEx Meetings

In your presentation, capture the following areas

• Your Name/ RegNo and area of Specialization

• Introduction/brief definition of the tool
• Advantages and disadvantages of the tool
• Various functionalities of the tool
• Submit the recorded presentation which captures the power point presentation and
your face.