5 Factors Educators Must Consider in Choosing an LMS Platform
A Learning Management System (LMS) is a software platform for managing, delivering, and tracking online learning activities. It is designed to facilitate the delivery of educational content, such as online courses, assessments, and other learning activities.
An LMS also allows instructors to track learners’ progress and performance, provide feedback, and ultimately measure the success of learning activities. But which factors should educators consider in choosing the best LMS platform? Here are some ideas.
1. Self-Hosting Option
Self-hosting your own Learning Management System (LMS) is a great way to take control of your online education. With a self-hosted LMS, you can customize the platform to your needs, create a unique learning environment, and ensure your data remains secure. Best of all, you can do all this without paying hosting fees or relying on third-party support.
When considering self-hosting, there are a few key things to remember. First, you’ll need to ensure that your server meets the system requirements of the LMS you’re considering. You’ll also want to ensure you have the technical knowledge and expertise to install, configure, and maintain the system. Finally, consider the costs for maintenance and hosting for it.
2. Desktop Program
Desktop programs are a great way to deliver course materials and track student progress without relying on an internet connection. With desktop programs, there is no need to worry about web hosting fees or compatibility issues. The materials are stored on the user’s computer, and the program can be installed on multiple machines.
When considering a desktop program, it is essential to remember that the program must be installed on each user’s computer. It can be a challenge if you’re dealing with many users. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure you have the technical knowledge and expertise to install and configure the program.
3. Smartphone Application
Smartphone applications are becoming increasingly popular for delivering course materials and tracking student progress. Apps allow users to access course materials and track their progress from their phones, which is especially useful for students who are always on the go.
When considering a smartphone application, ensuring that the app is compatible with the devices your students are likely to use is essential. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure you have the technical knowledge and expertise to develop and maintain the app.
4. Support
Support is an integral part of any online learning experience. Many students will need help understanding course materials or technical issues. Therefore, every LMS should provide an aftercare support system for users’ questions.
Support can come through online forums, email, chat, and more. Users must decide which support they will offer and how to manage it. However, the support should be easy to contact and active as soon as the purchase or at the activation.
5. Customer Service
Customer service is essential for any online learning platform. When students have issues or questions, they should be able to contact the customer service department quickly and easily. Most LMSs will have a customer service department that is available 24/7.
The customer service department should be knowledgeable about the platform and able to assist and solve user problems. If a customer service department is unavailable, users’ issues may go unresolved or take too long to resolve.
Conclusion
An LMS provides educators with an easy way to organize and manage courses. It can be used to create online course materials, such as lecture slides, quizzes, and tests. It also allows educators to track student progress, assign grades, and manage communication with students.
For students, an LMS can be a valuable resource for learning. It provides easy access to course materials, quizzes, tests, and discussion forums. It also allows students to track their progress and discuss it with others easily.
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References:
https://elearningindustry.com/top-8-benefits-of-using-learning-management-systems
https://www.sciedu.ca/journal/index.php/wje/article/viewFile/471/238
