Learning Management System LMS

The Internet has enabled the creation of large-scale, Web-based, learning and eliminated the need for more traditional resource materials, or the typical classroom format of teaching. Learning management systems grew out of this technology, enabling planning and tracking of individual learning needs and accomplishments. A Learning management system LMS, is the new version of traditional course management systems, enabling experts to create and deliver courses, and analyze and measure responses much more quickly.

A Learning Management System LMS is just a software package enabling the easy management and delivery of online learning content to learners. Most LMSs are web-based and allow for learner registration, quick delivery of learning activities and content, and efficient learner assessment online. Comprehensive LMSs may also include tools like competency management tools, skill-gap analysis, easy succession planning, individual certifications, and allocation of resources like venues, textbooks, instructors, and so on.

LMSs are based on the use of a large database and are generally commercially developed and frequently have licensing. In addition to the simple, basic functionality, LMSs also cater to different educational and administrative requirements. The characteristics of LMSs include:

• The ability to manage multiple users, many roles, courses, multiple instructors, and facilities
• The ability to generate reports
• Provision of a course calendar
• Facilities of learner messaging and notifications
• Assessment of students before and after testing
• Display of scores and student transcripts
• Grading, roster processing, and wait-listing
• Web-based and/or format blended course delivery
• Characteristics specific to the planned learning:

A learning management system LMS creates an online learning environment both on the internet and intranet environments. An LMS gives the organization or institution the means to track users, assess their performance, deploy relevant content, and access general administrative functions like records management.

A learning management system LMS provides the learner the opportunity to use interactive features like peer-to-peer group discussions, audio and video conferencing, etc, enabling efficient informal learning.