Learning Management System Digital Tool No 7

LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
I have been studying on-line or flex since 2007. My first introduction to on-line learning was through the Learning Management System – ‘Blackboard’. 2010 is my first year using ‘Moodle’. Both Learning Management Systems or Virtual Learning Environments create a ‘virtual classroom’ where a student can access all the required resources and information required to undertake study. The teacher, educator or lecturer places all the required information into one area where the student has access, for security reasons, by use of a log on and password, to enable the student to undertake the study.
The ideals of the 'Moodle' Virtual Classroom are based on what is known as ‘social constructivism’ of which the theorist Vygotsky proposed the learning framework based on the social development of the student and the zone of proximal development. This area was the focal point in week one of the Managing E-Learning Course I am studying. The Learning Management Systems allow a student to progress at their own pace, usually with weekly guidelines, and providing support through on-line discussion forums, web conferences, e-mails, hyperlinked on-line resources through the auspices of a learning institution, in my case a Tertiary Institution – University. The system of a ‘virtual classroom’ is also available through Education Queensland -The Learning Place for the use of teachers to assist with lesson delivery to students.


PLUS:

1. Learning Management System is an effective tool for distance or flexible education across rural and remote Australia.
2. Provides independence for learning.
3. 24 hour access on-line.
4. Students can work at own pace through the units of study, without having to travel to attend lectures.
5. Uploading of assignments and on-line quizzes provide support.
   

MINUS

1. The system requires computer and basic ICT knowledge which would initially impact the age of the student, and younger students would require more support or assistance to use it.
2. Access to lecturer is usually through e-mail system and is reliant on the business or working hours of the university. This may impact learning.
3. Learning style is not suitable for all students.
4. Lack of face to face interaction with a lecturer may discourage a student from continuing with a course.
5. Frustration at lack of immediate feedback or response to questions or clarity on study topics may be a drawback.
6. Although collaborative learning is encouraged, because learners are self-paced, it is difficult to work effectively as a team or group.
7. Learners may fall behind and be unable to keep up with study as no definite structure or timeframes other than suggestions and due dates for assignments are in place.
8. It can create limitations in rural areas due to ‘broadband’ or ‘dialup’ access.
9. It also costs money to have up to date ICT equipment and internet access.
   

INTERESTING IMPROVE IMPLEMENT

I enjoy the idea of a ‘virtual classroom’ and believe that it is the way of the future. I think it is an effective teaching tool where teachers will be able to view the ideas and lessons of other teachers not only in their own school but around the world. Again, with all things new, it is not something that all teachers will want to use. As new technology teachers enter the classroom, it will be interesting to see the uptake of lesson planning through the virtual classroom. The problem is, as with all technology, it is changing and developing so fast that we must remember the importance of working individually with a student on a one to one personal basis and being able for them to appreciate the teachers’ enthusiasm for the lesson. This may not come across in an e-mail or a typed message.
I would use this technology tomorrow if I could. I would love for all teachers to have their lesson information up and posted in a ‘virtual classroom’ where students who do not attend class full-time or require support (in these cases either through illness or learning support) and the support teacher/teacher aide or student can have access to the lessons and curriculum planning that the teacher is using on a daily basis for the class.

WHAT I THINK
Virtual classrooms through Learning Management Systems simply open doors for learners. It may be a student who because of medical reasons cannot attend a class full time, or because of distance – they live on the other side of the world, it doesn’t matter. The point is that this is a new way that education is moving forward and it gives opportunities for students that they may never have had before. If supported by the education systems, the virtual ‘schools’ can only grow and get better.