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Course Management Systems

Definition:

We define online tools as those tools that are available through online course delivery systems, also known as learning or course management systems. Most course delivery systems include the following tools:

  • announcements
  • calendar
  • gradebook
  • asynchronous discussion boards - threaded discussions
  • synchronous chat room
  • emailing - internal and/or external accounts
  • online journal
  • white board
  • dropbox
  • document sharing, including digital pictures, audio, and streaming video
  • team areas that include a variety of tools for collaboration - managed by instructor
  • quiz, test, and survey options
  • user activity reports

Some of the common online course delivery systems include:

  • WebCT - currently supported by ISU; to get a course set up contact Kate Plantholt the Coordinator of Computer Support at kaplant@ilstu.edu
  • Blackboard - currently used and supported by UHigh; 30-day trial courses are available through Blackboard at www.coursesites.blackboard.com
  • Moodle - an open source LMS designed specifically to support the constructivist learning environment; visit their site at www.moodle.com
  • eCollege - currently used by Illinois Virtual High School; visit eCollege at www.ecollege.com
  • Elluminate - used as a synchronous tool, Elluminate provides synchronous chats that are supplemented with audio; white boards are also available. Elluminate has also added a video feature that works like a webcam. If you would like to see this tool in action, go to: www.elluminate.com. Download a demo version of the software and you will be able to view and participate in example courses.

There are also a variety of communication tools available, often for free, on the Internet. The popular Instant Messaging programs provided by Yahoo, Microsoft, AOL, and others will many times include file-sharing and voice/video communication options.

It helpful to access learning management systems using a high bandwidth (DSL or broadband cable) connection. Unless the online material is text-based, the faster connection allows for more timely loading and more effective use of the online tools.