A Learning Management System (LMS) is a software Application that is used for the administration, documentation, tracking, reporting, automation, and delivery of educational courses, training programs, materials or learning and development programs. It is also referred to as a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and it is a concept that emerged directly from e-Learning.
How does a Learning Management System work?
An LMS is designed to help create, manage, deliver, and assess training courses and L&D programs. These programs are conducted online, although they can be accessed offline from mobile devices with downloaded content.
Many times, when the word Learning is mentioned, the memories it evokes are classrooms and training halls. Well, gone are the days when education was strictly attained in a learning institute. Anyone can access educational information online( or even offline once they decide to use the download function) even outside the classroom with the help of a Learning Management System.
Learning management systems come with a variety of tools that facilitate e-Learning, virtual classrooms, mentoring, web conferencing, as well as instant messaging, making it easier for users to access different kinds of learning tools for personal, educational, or corporate purposes.
Evolution of Learning Management Systems.
Many people are not aware of this but the origin of LMS can be traced back to the early days of computing. In the 1960s and 1970s for instance, computers were used primarily for scientific and military purposes. However, the potential for computer-assisted instruction in education was recognized, leading to the development of Computer-Based Training (CBT) systems. The CBT Systems therefore laid the foundation for what would later be known as the Learning Management Systems (LMS)
In the 1980s, the emergence of e-Learning platforms and the shift towards web-based training took over. This is where the internet and LMS merged. During this particular time, educational institutions and corporations started to embrace online learning as a way to deliver education and training. It was argued back then that this method seemed more cost effective and rather efficient.
The early 1990s then saw the birth of modern Learning Management Systems. These systems introduced a wide range of modern LMS features. These features included user management, content creation and management, reporting, and integration capabilities. Believe me, this was the start of modern Learning Management systems.
By the late 2000s and early 2010s, most LMS stakeholders embraced the need for mobile LMS. With this plan, stakeholders worked on developing software applications that would integrate with their LMS with responsive LMS design. These applications allowed for the creation of mobile-friendly learning solutions while also making LMS more accessible and intuitive for users. At this point, all it required for one to access these Learning Management Systems was a mobile phone. Incredible, right?
Characteristics of a good Learning Management Systems.
However much the characteristics of a good Learning Management system entirely depend on what meets the need of an organization, there are still a few characteristics that are a must have for every good LMS.
Regular update status.
Education is an never ending sequence. Every single day, new information comes up and stashes the old and outdated Information. In many circumstances, learners are even advised to always be on the look out for new information, learning and re- learning every single day.
It is therefore important for an LMS to have regular update tools. It is undeniable that the learning industry is changing, so the LMS needs to also change along with the learning system. It is essential that the LMS provides regular updates, new functionality and modification of existing features accommodating the latest changes in the learning industry.
Must be User Friendly.
Learning in itself is pretty hectic. Now imagine using an LMS that is as complicated as your calculus (How frustrating!) LMS can only be deemed useful if the users completely understand the system. It must therefore be easy to use. An LMS with user-friendly interface enables the users to easily understand its features and utilize them fully.
Cost Effective.
When it comes to money issues, very many people flinch. Here is why. If you opt for a highly expensive Learning Management System and it does not even meet your needs, it is highly disastrous. It is important therefore to ensure that the LMS falls in an organization’s budget bracket. It must offer complete value for a stakeholder's money.
Customization needs.
Not every organization has the same needs. Organizational needs vary according to the stakeholders so there is no one-size-fits-all thesis when it comes to a learning management system. As the requirements of every business vary, they require different features that facilitate their operations. A good LMS must offer customization options to the users so that it can be changed for their convenience without relying on external help.
Integrated Learning.
A good LMS must support integrated learning too. In the modern world, organizations use various training methods to train their employees like classroom training, blended learning and mobile learning. The learning management system should be able to support a variety of training programs so that users can access them when they deem necessary.
Features of a Learning Management System.
Gamification.
This is the process of adding game mechanics into a non game environment. It makes the learning process more interesting and engaging. It is majorly used for motivation.
Certification.
This comes in handy for organizational structure as it is used to track whether employees have finished a certain course, who exactly has finished which course and the amount of time it will take certain employees to finish their respective courses.
Course Management.
Course Management is an essential feature of a good Learning Management System as it helps streamline all the course administration activities, including creation, pre-registration, modification, delivery, and order management.
Analytics.
First off, analytics makes use of Mathematics, statistics and machine learning to find meaningful patterns in data. It is essential because it helps to visualize data from a Management Learning System at a glance. It is quite useful for tracking learners' progress.
Assessment.
Assessment involves the collection, review and use of both qualitative and quantitative data to improve student learning. This feature is essential as it helps to track learners' progress, setbacks and providing recommendations on how to improve the setbacks. It is a bit similar to gamification as it is engaging for learners. Most LMS use quizzes to track learners’ progress which makes the whole system motivating and engaging.
Learning Paths.
Learning paths are a string of courses tied together in a specific order for a learner’s disposal. They are useful in keeping up with the trend of online learning. These learning paths adjust the difficulty and sequence of content based on learners' progress.
Benefits of a learning Management system.
Cost Effective.
Imagine an education with less expenditure. Heavenly, right? This is one of the most critical benefits of using Learning Management Systems. Use of LMS aids in reducing the need for physical classroom space, textbooks, and other materials that would be used. All the necessary material is available for e-learning and also easily accessible.
Accessibility.
Online access to educational materials makes it easy for students as well as employees to learn from anywhere, at any time. It us highly helpful because learners can also learn at their own pace, which can be extremely beneficial for those with busy schedules, who prefer to learn independently or those who work remotely.
Tracking and Reporting.
Since the progress of learners needs to be tracked, the Integral monitoring and insight tools allow for progress tracking and reporting on the overall success of training programs and related return on investment. This also makes it possible to track knowledge gaps thereby finding solutions to mitigate this issue.
Encourages Knowledge retention.
Because of constant engagement via Interactive elements such as quizzes, knowledge checks, discussion boards, and multimedia content, the learning experience which is quite engaging helps to boost knowledge retention. There is also constant collaboration and communication between learners, managers and instructors, as well as among classmates, which can enhance the learning experience for every learner.
Up to date content.
Learning Management Systems allow stake holders instant access to updating the content of courses, or to add materials and resources for learners for immediate access. It also keeps learners in the loop with up to date information. This is a win-win for stakeholders and learners as well.
Various learning institutions and Organizations should put into considering the idea of Integrating Learning Management Systems since they have various benefits. With the right implementation, these systems are sure to generate fabulous results with in the E- learning industry.
