What is Learning Management System (LMS)? Definition, Functions, & Types
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A Learning Management System (LMS) is software that allows you to create and manage learning systems, and even generate progress reports more easily via a website.
LMS software can be utilized not only by educational institutions but also by companies for corporate training and development, and by governments for civil service training.
So, what is a Learning Management System (LMS)? What are its functions and what key features should it include? What types of LMS are available? This article provides comprehensive information about LMS.
Table of Contents
What is a Learning Management System (LMS)?
Before going further, it’s important to understand what an LMS is. A Learning Management System (LMS) is a software system designed to create, deliver, and manage learning content and training programs.
An LMS functions like a learning hub or virtual school, where educators can upload materials, create assignments, and track student progress.
Similar to a Content Management System (CMS) which primarily manages text-based content, an LMS specifically manages online learning systems. The purposes of an LMS include:
- Facilitating teaching and learning
- Enhancing accessibility
- Increasing flexibility
- Simplifying learning content management
- Easing administration and reporting
- Simplifying certification
- Improving cost-effectiveness
How does an LMS achieve these goals? It is equipped with functionalities and features that support these objectives, ranging from content management features, communication tools, to gamification elements.
Functions and Key Features in an LMS
Here are some common features typically found in a Learning Management System (LMS). We categorize these features using the MoSCoW framework (must-have, should-have, could-have, won’t-have) to map out priorities:
1. Must-Have Features
These are the essential features that a Learning Management System (LMS) must include, encompassing basic functions such as learning content management, user management, evaluation, and reporting.
a. Learning Content Management
The most common feature in an LMS is the learning content management system. This feature includes the creation and deletion of learning content.
Additionally, this feature should be capable of organizing modules and learning materials in a structured format, making it easy for educators to use and clearly display to students.
b. User Management
Another essential component of a Learning Management System is the user management system. This includes creating LMS accounts and the student registration process on the LMS.
Furthermore, user management should feature user role creation and configuration. In an LMS, user roles are generally divided into three categories: administrator, instructor/educator, and student.
c. Evaluation and Assessment Features
Evaluation and assessment features are also crucial. These features are used to create and administer assessments and grades, whether through quizzes or assignments. A related feature is progress tracking to monitor student assignment progress.
d. Reporting and Analytics Features
Lastly, an LMS should be equipped with reporting and analytics features for monitoring student activities, performance, and learning completion. This makes it easier for administrators and educators to view student progress reports.
2. Should-Have Features
These features may not be necessary for the initial release of an LMS, but adding should-have features is highly recommended for long-term development.
a. Communication and Collaboration Features
Communication and collaboration are support features that allow instructors and students to interact and communicate within the LMS environment. Practical examples of these features are discussion forums and messaging (chatting).
b. Compatibility and Integration
Next, during the development process, adding compatibility and integration features for mobile access is equally important. This ensures the LMS can be accessed via both computer/desktop and mobiles.
c. Content Personalization
Once the two features above are developed, an LMS can also be enhanced with content personalization features for users based on their needs and preferences.
d. Gamification
Gamification is a more advanced feature that can be challenging to develop, but partnering with an LMS development service can make it easier and faster. This feature can enhance user motivation through points, badges, and leaderboards.
3. Could-Have Features
These features can be added during the long-term development of the LMS, but they are not essential components for LMS operation. Their absence is not a major issue.
a. Virtual Classroom
A virtual classroom feature that allows live learning or synchronous learning can be added once the must-have and should-have features are complete.
b. Social Learning Features
To enhance user interactions within the LMS, the Social Learning feature can be included. This integrates social media with the LMS, facilitating easier interaction and collaboration.
c. Advanced Analytics Features
This feature enables users, particularly administrators and tutors, to analyze student performance and study patterns, ensuring more targeted feedback.
d. AI-Supported Features
AI support can be introduced during further iterations. This feature can ease processes for both instructors and students. Examples include chatbots and automated grading.
e. Compliance Management
After implementing all features, the developed Learning Management System (LMS) should meet industry and government standards and regulations, ensuring its security can be accounted for.
4. Won’t Have Features
Certain features are unnecessary in an LMS as they are either irrelevant to the primary goal of learning, require extensive resources, or pose significant risks.
For example, video editing is a feature that’s challenging to develop. Moreover, video editing is far removed from the main purpose of an LMS, which is managing learning.
Who Needs an LMS?
Here is a breakdown of the segments that require a Learning Management System (LMS), ranging from corporations, educational institutions, NPOs, governments, to industries:
1. Corporations: General Training
First, corporations of all sizes need an LMS for general or corporate training. This type of training typically applies to all employees, such as during onboarding or compliance training on general regulations.
Conducting such corporate training and HR development becomes easier if the company has its own LMS. Thus, delivering and monitoring progress is more manageable, effective, and efficient.
2. Corporations: Industry-Specific Training
While there might be some overlap with general corporations, this category is slightly different. These corporations need an LMS for training and HR development focused on specific industry skills (industry-specific training).
Examples include Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) training in healthcare and Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) training in finance, which can be accomplished using an LMS. Other examples include Digital Marketing, Programming, SAP, and other in-depth skill training.
3. Educational Institutions
Implementing an LMS in educational institutions is essential, from universities and schools to formal and informal training centers. It supports learning and facilitates blended learning approaches.
An LMS in colleges, schools, and other educational institutions aids instructors in delivering materials, testing students, and compiling grades. All administrative activities become far easier.
4. Non-Profit Organizations
For those in Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs), the role of an LMS is also significant. It helps in providing efficient and effective learning for volunteers and staff.
Volunteers are often spread across various locations. With an LMS, training for these volunteers can be conducted more easily online.
5. Government
The government is another sector that needs an LMS, especially to enhance and standardize the skills of its employees through training. Examples include training on regulations and government policies.
Collaborating with top website development services can make realizing LMS needs for government easier, such as developing the LMS for Health Ministry, Education Ministry, or Teacher Professional Development. When choosing a service provider, ensure they have experience in developing government web systems.
Types of Learning Management Systems (LMS)
Broadly speaking, Learning Management Systems (LMS) are categorized into three types: based on (1) delivery mode, (2) use case, and (3) source code.
1. Based on Delivery Mode
Based on their delivery mode, LMSs are divided into two types: (1) Cloud-based LMS (SaaS) and (2) Installed (On-Premise). SaaS LMS can be accessed through a browser, eliminating the need to install software. Examples include Udemy and Adobe Learning Manager.
On the other hand, On-Premise LMS is installed on a private server. This type offers full control but requires higher technical skills. Examples include Moodle, Blackboard Learn, SAP Litmos, and Docebo.
For those familiar with WordPress, this technology can also be used to develop an LMS. However, creating an LMS on WordPress requires installing plugins.
2. Based on Use Case
Use case refers to the context that provides an understanding of how a software is used by users. LMS types are divided into three based on their use cases: (1) Learning Management System [LMS]; (2) Learning Experience Platform [LXP]; and (3) Talent Management System [TMS].
- LMS: Typically used for general learning needs. Examples include Udemy and Cornerstone OnDemand.
- LXP: Focuses on personalized learning experiences with curated content. An example is Degreed.
- TMS: Comes with talent management features. Examples include Workday Learning and Oracle University.
3. Based on Source Code
Based on source code, Learning Management Systems can be categorized into two types: (1) open-source LMS and (2) closed-source LMS. Here are their differences:
- Open-source LMS: This type allows access to the programming source code, enabling deeper customization for those with adequate technical skills. Examples include Moodle and Totara Learn.
- Closed-source LMS: The source code is not accessible, offering limited customization. However, this type of LMS is generally easier to use. Examples include Udemy and Thinkific.
You can read more about LMS examples in our article about Learning Management System (LMS) examples. If you need to develop an LMS, you can consult with a service for creating online educational course websites.
Understanding What a Learning Management System (LMS) Is?
That’s a brief overview of what Learning Management System (LMS) is. In addition to the definition, this article also provides additional information, such as LMS features, the parties that need an LMS, and the different types of LMS.
If you need assistance in developing a Learning Management System (LMS) website, you can collaborate with the Tonjoo team. This software development consultancy has created LMS platforms like FutureSkills and Cakap.
Beyond its portfolio in LMS, Tonjoo also has experience in developing WordPress-based websites for clients such as Universitas Gadjah Mada, Hipwee, and others.
If you’re interested in collaborating, you can contact the Tonjoo team through our provided contact details.
Read similar articles by Moch. Nasikhun Amin on the Tonjoo blog about WordPress, WooCommerce, Moodle, and other web development topics.
Updated on December 2, 2024 by Moch. Nasikhun Amin