LMSs

Home

=LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (LMS) =
 * What is it? **

 A learning management system (often referred to as an LMS) is similar to a website, however student activity can be monitored and tracked. LMSs are used for the delivery of training as they give 24/7 access to resources and instruction, and boring text can be enhanced using audio, video, activities, quizzes etc for additional enrichment and engagement. They also provide flexibility eg when a student cannot come to a classroom due to distance, work or family pressures.

**Point me to something** Moodle is one of the more common LMSs, and is being used extensively by TAFEs, Universities, schools, businesses and training organisations. It has become popular because it is free to download, there are no contracts and it is comparatively easy to use.

**What is happening in education?** > >
 * In it's simplest form, Moodle is being used as a ‘library’ of resources for students. This is more effective than paper handouts (which can be misplaced) or emailed links (which are often forgotten)....it becomes a 'one stop shop' for all information. There is also a reduced printing cost to the training organisation.
 * Moodle is often used for blended learning, meaning it doesn't //replace// face to face classes, but reduces the need for full attendance, provides flexibility for both staff and students and offers enrichment and the ability to present content not always accessible in a classroom (eg videos).
 * A more advanced use is the holistic provision of online training for external learners who cannot attend classes. This is less common in the VET sector due to the level of skill development often required, however with workplace support for this aspect of training, this completely online model of training is becoming more common.
 * But not everyone is using Moodle just for training. Examples from other educators include using Moodle as a CoP (Community of Practice) amongst colleagues, as a 'community area' for external students...and even as a RPL tool (Recognition of Prior Learning). Very versatile! :-)

**Examples** Here are some examples of Moodle courses to look at, although note that you can't get 'into' all of these as some are live courses with real students. The ones marked ** allow some access.

> > **Show me how...** If you've never seen Moodle, the video below uses the concept of Lego to show how it works...a good description! Here are some additional resources
 * [|Digital Photography **]
 * Work Green Port Adelaide Enfield Council
 * [|Hazards & Risks **]
 * APYTAFE Moodle
 * [|Let’s Moodle **]
 * A collection of 2 Minute Moodles – a list of videos which simplify and show how to use a range of Moodle features.
 * Teaching with Moodle - a wiki that I have created to assist trainers using Moodle.
 * Moodle Tool Guide for Teachers - a handy resource
 * Best ways of using Moodle - a Powerpoint presentation
 * Unmoodling Your Moodle a presentation on laying out your Moodle
 * Ideas to Defeat the Scroll of Death a forum discussion about preventing your Moodle looking like a long list of resources & links
 * 47 Interesting Ways to Use Moodle to Support Learning a presentation

media type="youtube" key="_XPZl6LLvik" height="390" width="640"

Training providers in South Australia are able to get a FREE Moodle classroom from e-Skills. Use it as a 'sandpit' to become familiar with Moodle, use it for training...or even use it as a delivery point for students. In other states and territories, check with your local E-learning Coordinator for alternative arrangements.

Photo of Moodle on computer: CC licensed Flickr photo by CEThompson
 * Acknowledgement**

Home