LMS Tools Category (3.1.1)

A Learning Management System, or LMS, refers to the software or system that manages the organization and delivery of online learning tools in a virtual community.  There are many different tools available in the LMS that the instructor can use to support their students through online learning.  Viewing analytics and data can be extremely helpful for teachers to prepare for the learning needs of their students.  Communication tools such as email, instant messenger and discussion posts are imperative for a virtual classroom.  I like to keep in contact with all parents and students so I think news blasts or bulletin boards are extremely useful.  Of course there are the necessities such an online gradebook, dropbox for students to submit assignments, class lists and calendar.  In addition, having the import/export feature is helpful to the teacher so that not so much time is wasted creating the same assignment in different courses.  All of these tools are beneficial and help create an efficient learning environment for the teacher and students.  

Lecture Capture (2.1.4)

Lecture Capture refers to any technology that allows teachers to record their class lectures and make it available digitally.  It includes many different devices and software.  This can be as simple as recording a lesson with an iPod; or a more complex system that also includes cursor movement, typing and on-screen activity throughout the lecture.

How would the resource function in the online classroom?
This would be a vital resource to have in an online classroom.  Teachers can provide lessons with explanations that accompany the visuals.  I recently completed my master's degree online.  Many of my teachers used Livescribe software, which is a specific type of lecture capture.  This allowed me to see the math problem worked out and explained through the software.  I think this allows students to be more engaged and understand the concepts at a deeper level.   

How would the integration of Lecture Capture modify teaching methods?
I think it provides teachers the opportunity to explain concepts more efficiently.  Lecture Capture also gives students a more in-depth explanation so they can be held responsible for their learning.  Lastly, I think it helps address areas of concern when students are falling behind.  If there is an area that needs to be addressed as a class, the teacher can work an example problem using Lecture Capture to address these issues at one time. 

Commercial vs. Open Virtual Classroom (2.1.3)

Most of the software I have used in educational platforms has been commercial.  This type of software requires that people pay in order to have full access to it.  They can buy memberships, or schools can purchase a license for the product.  Since it is run by a company, there are many benefits such as technology support, point of contact, and constantly updating to compete with the other commercial software.  These types of programs are usually needed for software that many people will be using in a setting such as a school or work place.  Adobe Connect, Blackboard, Cisco WebEx and GoTo Meeting are all examples of commercial learning software.

Open source software also has many benefits.  It is free which obviously attracts many participants.  Since it is public access, it also allows users to modify and share their work.  It also has an open source code so anyone who has access to the code can modify and enhance the program.  Many people also consider open source software more secure and reliable since many people can fix others' previous errors.  Examples of open source software includes Moodle, Blender, and Hangouts. 

Recorded Session

I have recorded a mini lesson before by using just a microphone and podcast software.  So although this wasn't my first time recording myself teaching, it was the first time I have used GoToMeeting that accompanied a visual with the podcast.  One of the biggest things that I was aware of in my first podcast was how detailed I needed to be in my teaching since the students would not be able to see anything while I was speaking.  I feel like students would be able to follow a lecture using GoToMeeting much easier than just a podcast.  With this experience, I felt more confident in my lecture since I had visuals to accompany my discussion. 

I felt like this was a fairly straightforward process.  GoToMeeting is not a free software, but it does have a free 30 day trial so I was able to practice using the software.  Once you are ready to start the lecture, click "Start your meeting."  You can start recording from there, but make sure your microphone is on so your students are able to hear what you are saying, along with what you are showing on your screen.  I enjoyed this experience and think this is extremely beneficial in online learning. 

Synchronous Delivery Methods (2.1.1)

There are many programs that allow teachers and students to interact with each other at the same time.  Below, we explore some of the software available that provides asynchronous learning environments. 

Adobe Connect: This software allows teachers to set up online meetings where students and teachers can record and work through problems online.  This provides opportunities for students to ask questions and receive immediate answers.

Cisco WebEx: This software is great because it allows the teacher to modify it to meet their individual needs when instructing their students.  It provides small online meetings with video conferencing, or the teachers can add functionality for webinars, training or technical support. 

Blackboard Collaborate:  This software is very popular among colleges.  I have had experience with this software, even in my in-person classes.  We could use this software to turn in assignments, ask questions for our professor, and discuss topics with other students.  This software provides high quality, high definition audio and video which makes it a great device for online learning.

BigBlueButton: This software is accessible for all teachers since it has free access.  It allows teachers the opportunity to make anyone in the classroom the presenter in an online meeting.  In addition, the teacher or presenter, can write on the presentation so that other students can see the work on the problem.  Lastly, if students have webcams, the website allows video access so that teachers can see their students and have an online tutoring session if needed. 

What is the Difference Between LMS and CMS?

 

Learning Management System and Course Management System are two different ways that online schooling is delivered.  While the systems are very similar now, let's examine the factors that separate these two systems.

Course Management Systems (CMS) has a narrower focus than the LMS.  This system focuses mostly on the management of eLearning and instructor led courses.  They can essentially be stored in a LMS and are the most essential part of the LMS.  The CMS is less dynamic than the LMS, but is great when needed to store and display content.

An LMS is everything the CMS is, plus more.  It is more in depth and uses a subset of learning standards for reporting purposes.  In addition, the LMS has begun to include learning that takes place outside of a computing environment.   The LMS can be used to help improve learning performance as well.  All of these things make the LMS an effective tool for online learning environments. 

Learning Management Systems (1.2.1)

In order to have an efficient, successful online learning community, there are various roles that must be fulfilled.  Each person has certain responsibilities that they must handle in order for things to run smoothly.  The Learning Management System (LMS) is essential to online learning environments.  Listed below are the different roles in the LMS and the duties they must complete. 

     Administrator:

• Communicate with both facilitator and teachers
• Monitor virtual learning environment
• Oversee major concerns in the learning environment

     Facilitator:

• Approve students' course selections
• Approve payments
• Communicate with instructors
• Retrieve final grades
• Hold students' accountable - discusses issues and determines ways to overcome the obstacles

    Teacher:

• View class roster and student participants
• Provide online support for students
• Provide feedback to students in a timely manner
• Monitor student progress and achievement
• Adapt assignments in order to meet the needs of all students
• Communicate with parents, students, and facilitators
• Input students' grades

    Students:

• Register for online courses
• Learn online platform and system
• Communicate with instructor/ask questions when needed
• Follows school rules and course guidelines
• Be an active participant in their learning!