Learning management system
Encyclopedia : L : LE : LEA : Learning management system
A Learning Management System (or LMS) is a software package, usually on a large scale (that scale is decreasing rapidly), that enables the management and delivery of learning content and resources to students. Most LMS systems are web-based to facilitate "anytime, anywhere" access to learning content and administration.
At a minimum, the LMS usually allows for student registration, the delivery and tracking of e-learning courses and content, and testing, and may also allow for the management of instructor-led training classes. In the most comprehensive of LMSs, one may find tools such as competency management, skills-gap analysis, succession planning, certifications, virtual live classes, and resource allocation (venues, rooms, textbooks, instructors, etc.). Most systems allow for learner self-service, facilitating self-enrollment, and access to courses.
Some LMS vendors do not distinguish between LMS and LCMS, preferring to refer to both under the term "LMS", but there is a difference. The LCMS, which stands for "Learning Content Management System", facilitates organization of content from authoring tools, and presentation of this content to students via the LMS.
LMSs are based on a variety of development platforms, from Java EE based architectures to Microsoft .NET, and usually employ the use of a robust database back-end. While most systems are commercially developed, free and open-source models do exist. Other than the most simplistic, basic functionality, all LMSs cater to, and focus on different educational, administrative, and deployment requirements.
Open source LMS is growing fast in the education and business world.
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