Next Generation of LMS/LCMS

As e-learning has developed so has the LMS/LCMS technology to deploy it. Next-generation LMS/LCMS advancements are not focussed on aesthetics, but around interactivity and the recording of user behaviour. This information is valuable when looking at future development as it is quantifiable and helps you understand the continuously changing individual and organisational needs.

Some functions of a next generation LMS/ LCMS that could be of interest to you include:

• The ability to hold supporting documents not only Presentations, PDFs and Microsoft Word documents, but also objects such as website links and video clips that the learner can use as an additional learning resource.

• Creating programs of learning or grouping topics together, breaking learning up into bite-sized chunks so that staff are not overwhelmed by a long, unordered list of learning courses. With programmes of learning you can also group related courses, documents and links together giving the learner all the relevant information in one place.

• Your learner may only be interested in a pass or fail - but having the ability to drill down into test results can give you insight into your user’s behaviour. For example do you know:
• How many attempts were required to pass an assessment?
• How much time was spent spend on the learning?
• When was this training completed
• When will it expire?

• Creating assessments out with the module allows the learner to proceed at their own pace and revisit material until they feel they are ready to take the assessment This allow you to create summative assessments including flash interactions within your modules, whilst providing a formative assessment at the end of the learning process.

• Randomly selecting assessment questions from a large pool of questions allows you to avoid predictability.

• Customisation of your LMS and training materials allows you to give your e-learning the look and feel specific to your organisation.

• Course booking system integrated within your LMS, gives you one system to manage all your training from e-learning to scheduled classroom sessions in one place.

• E-portfolios, allow you to track your staff development and align learning to roles.

• Interoperability of IT systems is becoming increasingly important. Ensure that your suppliers are happy to interact with other 3rd party systems and that this will not cost the earth.

I hope this has given you a quick insight on how LMS/LCMS systems can help you provide exceptional training to your organisation.