LMS #1- .LRN
Communication Methods
.LRN is an LMS that focus on asynchronous learning but does provide chat for members who are online at the same time. There are email/ bulk email capabilities, chat, and the use of forums for communication needs. You will not find virtual classrooms in this system.
Content Organization
The content can be organized as classes or communities and allows the administrators to customize portlets for each of these. For example, sub groups within classes or communities can be made.
Interface
Allows for both the administrators and students to customize the layout of the user interface to suit his/ her needs. It is a fairly simple layout, not overcrowded with information that doesn’t pertain to the user. One noteworthy feature of the interface is the ability to customize the time zones as well as the language preference.
Capabilities
It is possible to create courses as well as content for courses within this LMS. Administrators can choose to leave as course open, closed, or require approval. Many applications such as email, forums, calendars, file storage, FAQ, assessment, blogger, and news can all be integrated.
Likes/Dislikes- Administrator
I would prefer to have an asynchronous component built in to the LMS. It does look very easy to use.
Likes/ Dislikes- Learner
I like that the user can customize the interface and set the time zones as well as preferred languages.
Use of Platform
While this system may not be as robust as some others, this system could prove to be very useful in a K-12 setting to house content as well as for peers to collaborate.
LMS #2- Desire 2 Learn
Communication Methods
Desire 2 Learn offers both synchronous and asynchronous learning platforms. Within each mode of learning capabilities, there are a multitude of features intended to aid in communication. There is a live chat feature, instant messaging, and a virtual classroom fully equipped with an interactive whiteboard,
Content Organization
Desire 2 Learn is fully customizable by the administrator and a course can be designed fairly easily by simply plugging content into the “Course Builder Canvas.” You can easily add or delete items such as links, documents, websites, discussion forums, etc. You are also able to import various components and multimedia. Another aspect of course organization that is important to mention is the ability to easily create templates for future courses.
Interface
Desire 2 Learn’s interface is user-friendly even for those new to LMS, and course design. It uses drag and drop approach and does not require a wealth of knowledge on the administrator’s part.
Capabilities
Desire 2 Learn has a range of possibilities and packages all able to serve a variety of functions. All standard features are available such as calendars, forums, drop boxes, content, and news. There are also multiple features that can be used for administrative management and tracking, including attendance, and a unique e-portfolio feature that allows for management of content and showcasing skills.
Like/ Dislikes- Administrator
I like the ease of use for a beginning administrator, so they can focus on the content and not the “how do I?” of the course design.
The number of features and capabilities available to the administrator when designing coursework impress me. The e-portfolio feature really sets this LMS apart from others and what is even more impressive is that it is a fully integrated part of the LMS itself.
Likes/ Dislikes- Learner
Again, I like the amount of features available, which allows for a wider array of ways in which learners can take advantage of an LMS for their e-learning experience.
Use of Platform
Desire 2 Learn set out to appeal to five different markets including K-12, Higher Education, Healthcare, Corporate, and Government. I can see this being widely used by all markets listed, and I am actually excited about the possibility of using this LMS at my site!
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