Module 4 Unit 2
LMS
In this section, we will explore two LMS or virtual classroom applications viz. Google Classroom and Moodle Cloud.
Google Classroom
Google Classroom gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic - teachers simply had to find a solution where they could continue teaching but by using online collaboration tools - and Google Classroom is a fine example of this.
Some of the features which Google Classroom offers include the following:
- the ability to create and manage classes, tests, exams, assignments and grading online
- the ability for teachers to provide 'live' online feedback
- the posting of class / subject announcements
- creating online discussion groups
- tracking of assignment, test and exam submissions
- online sharing of resource materials
Watch the YouTube video below hosted by Google for Education.
Google for Education. (2022). Using Google Classroom as an LMS (Standard YouTube licence)If you haven't already explored Google Classroom, follow these easy steps:
- Go to Google Classroom and select 'Go to Classroom'
- Enter the email address which you will be using for your Google Classroom account and then select 'Next'
- Enter your password and select 'Next'
- Read and 'Accept' the welcome message
- Should you be using a Google Workspace for Education account, select whether you are a 'student' or 'teacher'
- Then select 'Get Started'
Should you have an existing Google account, you are able to sign in using those credentials. You will then be able to either create, or join, a class.Have fun and explore what functionality Google Classroom offers you!
Moodle
Does the logo above look familiar? It should! The LMS which you are currently using is Moodle and in this section, we will be investigating specifically Moodle Cloud!Moodle Cloud is a freemium cloud based open-source learning management system used for online learning.
Freemium means a combination between 'free' and 'premium'. What this means is that users get a basic range of features free of charge but should they require advanced functionality i.e. the premium version, there are subscription costs involved.
The free version of Moodle Cloud caters for an unlimited number of courses for up to 50 users, with 250MB of storage.
Explore the Moodle website here to find out more and should you be interested; you will be able to download the product.
Case studies
Review the three Moodle case studies below to find out how this LMS application has been used to improve education in Africa.
Using the forum discussion tool below, discuss the following with your colleagues:
- Which video conferencing applications have you used?
- Did you enjoy the experience? If not, why not and if you did, why?
- Have you used any LMS applications? Which ones? How effective were they in achieving the desired learning outcomes?
Each person should post at least two comments and two replies.- معاينة تقديم الردود: 2 طرح منشورات في المنتدى: 2