May 27th, 2009 by Learning Systems

There are a number of misconceptions surrounding the purpose and function of learning management systems (LMS) and the related area of eLearning. It is perhaps an erroneous first step to look at these two areas as being distinctly separate. While it is true that each of the concepts that are presented here do have distinct definitions, they nevertheless form an integral partnership with one another, a virtual (no pun intended, but applicable) symbiotic relationship. Let’s take a look at how each of these concepts is defined in order to better understand the dynamic relationship they share with one another.

A LMS is a software package that an organization (be it business or educational) can utilize to provide instructional material and resources to personnel/students. Typically, an organization will integrate a LMS into their existing computer systems, or it can be a stand alone package. Whatever the case, a LMS is a tool that is used to offer training, educational courses, evaluation mechanisms and a whole host of other benefits. Usually, these resources can be accessed from computers that are provided on location and/or online.

Electronic learning or eLearning (also known as technology support learning [TSL]) is a means of instruction that is facilitated by technological means. In other words, it’s an educational experience that uses computers and other technology to provide training, classes, testing and other needed functions. Classes provided online, with either a virtual instructor or done remotely, is an example of eLearning.

At this point, a clear picture should be developing on the synergy that exists between a LMS and eLearning. In short, a LMS is the means and structure by which one facilitates eLearning. In an educational environment, for example, a LMS can integrate teaching and learning functions to enhance the overall use of resources, as well as the dissemination and absorption of information.

This is accomplished by the development and management of classes, information accessibility, student accomplishment analysis, progress tracking, and even the delivery and presentation of classes. With a LMS, eLearning is not limited to a single location. An educational organization can provide its offerings to a wide range of students in diverse locations as a result of online capabilities of a LMS.

There is little mystery, as one can see, about these concepts. LMS’s and eLearning allow effective and wide-reaching instructional offerings. It is within this understanding that Coggno, a software developer has stepped forward. This company that specializes in LMS’s, has offered to provide public schools free eLearning tools with its software. This move in the midst of educational budget cuts only serves to highlight the practicality and resource efficiency that these concepts provide. Coggno, for its part, is providing a much needed service to the public.

May 26th, 2009 by Learning Systems

I’ve written before that during strenuous economic times, many people choose (wisely) to upgrade their skills and expertise through LMS online courses. 

Supply Knowledge (SK) is one online system that may suit your needs. SK provides sourcing, procurement and supply management professionals with relevant and recent information and tools. 

SK’s tools and programs are practical, easy to find, and designed by practitioners.

On Supply Knowledge’s website there is a quote from Barack Obama on February 24: “I ask every American to commit to at least one year or more of higher education or career training. This can be community college or a four-year school, vocational training or an apprenticeship. But whatever the training may be, every American will need to get more than a high school diploma.” 

With this call to higher education in mind, Supply Knowledge sets out to provide certification programs and LMS online courses at a low price. The courses are self-paced and self-directed, providing flexibility and convenience to learners with busy schedules. 

SK offers dynamic and up-to-date programs in Strategic Sourcing Management, as well as the CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) Exam Preparation using ISM’s training material. 

Now SK’s online CPSM Bridge Exam Preparation is available through Coggno’s marketplace. If you are a procurement professional who already holds CPM credentials, the course will help you prepare to take an exam to become a Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM). 

The certification course was developed by instructors who graduated from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), and uses ISM-approved material.

The course includes an introductory section with information about the certification exam, and tips and hints for succeeding on the exam. Following this is a section for each of the three exam modules. 

SK is one LMS online provider that understands a simple concept: that transferring knowledge from the short-term memory to long-term is a process easily facilitated.

One of the most effective ways to help your brain absorb course material is repetitive review. Think of it this way: though you may park your car in hundreds of places throughout your lifetime, you probably remember easily enough where it is each time you leave it. And you just as easily forget where it was parked after you no longer need to find it there. 

However, if one day you parked your car in a random place in the parking lot, and then walked by it few times throughout the day, you might remember for days or even weeks where it was on that particular day.

This is a simple strategy for putting course content into your long term memory. When you learn something new, try to review the main points on the same day. Take notes on the LMS online material and keep them accessible. 

Supply Knowledge is a prime example of an LMS course provider that practices repetitive review. Throughout the course the learner is asked to complete many quizzes and case studies to test his or her knowledge. Each module ends with a quiz which helps students remember all the material included in that section, and upon completing the course there is a final quiz to prompt further practice and preparation for the CPSM exam. 

Another course offered by SK and available on Coggno’s website is Market Research for Sourcing and Procurement. The course teaches learners how to conduct market research, “to identify qualified (or qualifiable) suppliers or contractors that can meet your organization’s requirements.” 

The course a thorough yet concise overview about the ins and outs of market research, in a robust and effective online format. Enter Coggno’s marketplace and  discover LMS online courses for polishing your professional skills today. 

May 12th, 2009 by Learning Systems

When developing ways to support and motivate learners in an LMS online course, think incentives and clarity.

First, incentives. Think about it: Why did the chicken cross the road? It certainly wasn’t just to get to the other side. No, there was probably something across the road that the chicken wanted, and in order to get it, he had to traverse some pavement. Organizations using LMS online systems might keep this concept in mind.

Despite the fact that the endeavor or process itself typically turns out to be the reward, we humans still need a carrot in order to put forth effort. Intentional learning–or learning for the sake of learning–isn’t a common occurrence. Most people are not intentional learners. 

At its core, learning is about wanting something. In the classroom setting, that something may be good grades. In a company LMS online system, the desired objective may include rewards for good performance, or simple verbal encouragement and acclaim. 

Adults and children alike are highly responsive to simple words of encouragement. Along with a user-friendly and comprehensive training program with its own system of rewards and points, employees benefit greatly from human motivation. A figure of leadership who inspires and motivates trainees not only aids the learning process, but instills a sense of team unity and improves work relationships. 

When a company’s employees are self-confident and motivated, and maintain healthy workplace relationships, the organization always benefits.  A good leader understands the emotional intelligence factor of his team. 

As business author Michael LeBoeuf has said, “You get more of the behavior you reward. You don’t get what you hope for, ask for, wish for or beg for. You get what you reward.” When individual team members are poorly motivated, or feel like their work doesn’t make a difference, the whole team suffers. By rewarding group accomplishments, you inspire and promote teamwork and creative energy. 

Give each member a sense of responsibility; let them know that their actions make a difference. Though an LMS can be used to track achievements to provide rewards as part of a reward and recognition strategy, the best kind of recognition is face-to-face, in the form of positive words and encouragement from a respected figure.

In supporting and motivating learners in an LMS online course or team setting, clarity may be just as important as incentives.

First, communicate standard processes–technical and “soft” team processes. Specifically, the laying out of team processes is a important condition for team success. Not only can an LMS online system be used to provide information and guidance, but it can serve as a platform where team members can communicate with each other to plan, suggest, ask questions, etc.

When everyone knows what to expect, and what’s expected from them, a world of problems are avoided. Of course, learners/team members may generate their own ideas for collaboration, but these can be added later. When a course or team project is just starting out, consistency and coherence are paramount. 

Second, clarity can mean a little extra training, to make sure everyone is armed and on the same level with necessary skills. An organization should possess the necessary resources, including accessible and efficient communication technologies, as well as a little technical training. Technical training can be administered via an LMS online program or in a traditional, face-to-face training workshop. 

Remember that for many of your employees, a virtual classroom or team may be a completely new concept. Many people may have no prior experience in LMS online collaboration–or even much experience in a traditional, face-to-face team. Building an environment of trust and group reliance is therefore essential. Establish trust by setting simple, clear goals for each member, and letting each experience the satisfaction of having completed the task and played their part in the group.

An LMS can aid tremendously with the establishment of goals and clear objectives for a team learning experience. In addition, an LMS can help with the maintenance of a robust reward and recognition system. But at the end of the day, a strong, communicative leader with a kind word of encouragement will trump any available LMS online tool.

May 8th, 2009 by Learning Systems

An easy-to-use, robust UI (User Interface) isn’t easy to come by in LMS online course creators. Many organizations and training programs still rely on IT help to design and deliver courses and training. 

A problem that continues to plague the software industry is that program designers are often masters of engineering and programming, but lacking in other areas, like human psychology. It’s a sad truth that the industry is driven largely by profits and the ability to offer cutting-edge technology. Even if that technology isn’t exactly easy to manage.

In times like this, even finding a user-friendly interface can be a challenge. 

LMS online courses and course creation tools can likewise suffer from this quandary. Some LMSs are extremely well developed, created by people who understand how to design technology based on human behavior, and meeting high standards. But weak, unattractive, confusing courseware continues to prevent more effective and widespread online learning. 

According to the ASTD and the eLearning Guild, LMS buyers express general dissatisfaction with many LMS products on the market. They also noted problems including high prices, the need for IT support, integration, and customization. 

Those who work daily with an LMS give significantly lower satisfaction ratings than the directors and managers who receive the results and reports. 

There are a few major shortcomings for the elearning industry to overcome, and opportunities for smaller product vendors to tackle problems and compete in the rapidly growing market. An LMS is a complicated tool, but it doesn’t need to be complicated to use. It simply requires a great deal of attention to accessibility in its design. 

Luckily, some LMS online systems are perking their ears to the voices of consumers. 

Coggno’s online LMS has always been easy to use, but with its new UI courses are practically designed and delivered on their own. 

Faster reaction times, instant upload of users from spreadsheets, and user access codes allow the fast and breezy creation of online training.

Another new feature to Coggno’s LMS enables signup based on a secret code the administrator distributes. So there’s no need to send invitations. The administrator tells everyone to log on, and they are able to access the LMS based on the code.

Putting your courseware system on the market doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re looking for an easy-to-use, free online course syndicator for your courseware system, enter Coggno. 

Coggno allows you to create and brand your unique and sophisticated courseware system. 

Coggno’s user-friendly, flexible, straightforward user interface is a breeze to navigate and you’ll be walked through every step of your course creation. Entering Coggno’s website, you’ll find a variety of features including the SCORM publisher, text and video tools, question bank, quiz, template and assessment tools. Take a video tour of each of the tools to find out just how easy designing and delivering putting LMS online course can be. 

May 5th, 2009 by Learning Systems

Coggno’s pay per use LMS addresses content-based learning on a needs basis. Too often, people receive training they don’t require, or training that’s outdated and irrelevant. Coggno’s pay per use LMS offers exactly the services needed by an organization.

“Many organizations sign on for monthly contracts, but find they never create and push out as much content as they originally thought,” says Coggno VP Tod Browndorf. “Time goes by and their net costs are much higher. With Coggno, you can create your own training and deploy it as you need to.” 

This kind of system calls to mind buying produce at the market. Like most people, I would never buy something canned or frozen that is available fresh and in season. Who would dream of buying canned corn when sweet summer corn is cheap and abundant? 

Of course, it’s best to consume fresh produce while they’re fresh, and buy as needed. Rather than buying a truck-full of fresh strawberries, most people buy on a needs basis. After all, in just a couple of months, it’ll be apple season.

Just like produce, all training has a shelf life. Because of changes in procedures, technology, people, etc., applicable training is constantly changing. Coggno’s pay per use LMS tools make it easy to load and reload as required for relevant training. And because you’re only obligated to pay for training as needed, you can reinvent it as it evolves. 

Just as it’s best to buy fresh produce to consume as soon as possible, fresh and relevant training should be obtained on a needs basis.

With Coggno’s pay per use LMS, you can make training your own. Uploading your training material to Coggno, you’ll have the option to brand your content with your own logo and color scheme. Creating a unified and interesting theme will attract your learners’ attention and aid them in their learning process. 

Your user interface design should give your courseware system a unique look that’s easy to navigate and read. It might be a 3D learning environment, a 2D animated interface, or a professional business-style interface. As always, it’s essential to consider your audience. 

Coggno’s tools have a very easy UI (user interface), so a company does not need a technical person to use them to create and deploy. Coggno’s intuitive and straightforward user interface is both robust and flexible.

Coggno’s online learning marketplace was created to facilitate the fast and effective transfer of knowledge. The Coggno pay per use LMS provides robust tools such as text editor, question bank, video, podcast creator, assessment and quiz tools. 

“In addition, Coggno is constantly updating and releasing training versions,” says Browndorf, “so our platform–that is, software as a service model–will always keep you current.”

With Coggno’s learning management system you are able to choose from a variety of formats from quick courses to more intense and extended workshops, so you can acquire skills when you need them, in as short a time as you require. Coggno’s pay per use LMS allows visitors to access a spectrum of training material designed by hundreds of educators and experts. 

But best of all, Coggno’s pay per use LMS requires no up front costs to create and deploy your training.

April 14th, 2009 by Learning Systems

Are some learners more important than others in LMS training and education programs? Most people would answer no. But they’d be mistaken. 

When adopting LMS training and teaching technologies, there is one special person whose mastery of the technology holds more consequence; whose profound understanding of the course content and its form is critical. This is, of course, the person who is delivering the material–the teacher or trainer him/herself.

“Who dares to teach must never cease to learn,” said John Cotton Dana. Good teachers and trainers–especially those who rely heavily on technology for their course content–are constantly learning new ideas and skills in order to evolve with changing times.

An LMS is a big, intricate tool, though the complexity varies from LMS to LMS. If your organization is planning to implement LMS training, you’ll want to consider LMS training courses for your staff.

Look for training classes designed to get technical staff up to speed with new technologies, as well as maintain their knowledge of system and software capabilities for their specific systems. Trainers will learn how to apply the software to tackle engineering problems in specific application areas. Some courses provide both LMS training classes and optional on-site training services. 

LMS use in both companies and schools is currently on the rise. However, though LMSs are commonly used in universities, the standardization of LMSs in high schools is relatively sluggish. Why is this the case?

Lack of school funding and proper LMS training for educators are two reasons. 

For many teachers, the span of time separating today from the day they completed their teaching degree is a long one. And though most teachers are constantly learning as they go, there are some new skills, like managing LMSs or online courses, that they might be lacking compared to teachers fresh out of college. 

This is one major obstacle to the implementation of an LMS in many schools–oftentimes, educators are not well-equipped to use the technology. Training is expensive and often outside the possibilities of a school budget. Many educators are plunged into the stormy waters of unfamiliar technology without a paddle.

And given the benefits that experience with LMS technology provides for learners, it’s paramount that more high schools adopt advanced technology and collaborative learning softwares. Doing so will prepare students not only for more education, but for an increasingly competitive job market that values ICT skills more every day.

In higher education, feedback for LMS use has been mildly positive, though not exactly radiant. This reflects a need for better integration into the classroom, blending with face-to-face instruction, and LMS training for professors. At the beginning of 2008, about 4 million students were taking online courses in universities and other higher education institutions, with many of those courses being hosted on LMSs. And according to the Sloan report, which is based on a poll of academic leaders, students generally appear at least equally satisfied with their online classes as they were with traditional ones. 

But with more educators able to instruct using LMSs in their courses, greater quality and accessibility in course content offered online, and increasingly computer-savvy educators, the feedback is bound to become more positive. 

The ideal is for teachers and trainers to become closely familiar with how LMS training or teaching works as quickly as possible. This involves understanding instructional design as a teaching strategy. Instructional design refers to the practice of creating instructional tools and content to instigate interactions and facilitate learning between students. To facilitate effective online interactions, it’s important to first analyze and understand the different forms of interaction and learning online. 

Capella University is one school that recognizes that teachers might not have the time or means to attend face-to-face workshops. Capella offers Masters, PhD and other graduate programs in teaching online, instructional design for online learning, and curriculum and instruction with a technology focus. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. 

For a wealth of information on classroom technology topics, there are online sources for educators in the form of chatboards and discussion forums. Teachers.net is a great one for discussion boards, such as the Educational Software chatboard, as well as articles and resources related to integrating online courses in the classroom. Other sites offer tips on how to integrate online courseware into a course, and reports from educators who face challenges in their own blended learning environments. 

If you are a courseware system developer seeking a discussion forum to converse about the challenges and strategies involved in courseware creation, there are also many online resources. Some courseware system syndicators host forums where course developers can discuss their ideas, suggestions, etc. Coggno is one such platform, hosting an author-to-author discussion forum for anyone involved in the e-learning industry, or who wants to learn more about LMS training.

April 10th, 2009 by Learning Systems

Experienced trainers and educators understand the secret of peer groups in LMS online courses. When learners collaborate in an engaging and satisfying way, they produce potent results.

It’s not only an effective business strategy, but in a training program it works wonders, fostering a spirit of community and a sense of common purpose. Why is a sense of community an important aspect of a learning experience? And how can you create efficient group formats in a learning environment?

Latané’s social impact theory describes how a person’s behavior tends to correlate with the behavior of a group of people, given that these people become important to that person. So if a group is working hard to achieve a common goal, individual members are more likely to feel more deeply invested in the cause.  Frequent interaction is a critical factor in the equation. 

Encourage learners to collaborate to achieve goals using group discussions, IMs, blogs, conferences, wikis, etc. The more interactions that take place, the closer the students’ sense of “us” will be. Belonging to a community of engaged learners increases the likelihood that each learner will become more deeply engaged with the learning material.

All too often in LMS online systems, a leader (teacher or trainer) fails to take advantage of peer groups. This may be partly due to challenges posed by peer group arrangements. For example, we’ve all had the experience of a team effort in which there were one or more participants didn’t–lightly speaking–give their all. For peer learning to be effective in LMS online learning, the trainer must create a system that insures that all learners are participating. Thus the importance of an efficient learning tool like an LMS.

Using a learning management system, trainers and educators are able to track both group and individual progress. An LMS includes critical tools such as online assessment, automatic marking, a resource organizer for project work, and progress tracking mechanisms. Trainers are able to track which employees have completed their course requirements and those whose obligations are unfulfilled, or who may require updates or “refresher” courses. 

LMS online learning experts strive to be trendsetters, not followers, in the industry. This requires not only thinking outside the box, but keeping in mind our societal need for technology as a collaborative tool. The possibilities are endless. Companies are reacting according to this basic human need, developing cutting-edge technology that provides new ways of interacting online. 

Cisco, for example, is working on unified communications that combine a virtual meeting space via TV, web conferencing and instant messaging. The idea of collaboration is at the heart of tools like LMS online training systems as well.

In designing and maintaining your organization’s LMS, keep in mind its community-building capacity. The more interactive and collaborative, the more effective your course will be. Synergy is the bread and butter of today’s globalizing economy.

Organizing a virtual team is a process made a great deal easier by a robust learning management system. Training for team members can be organized and performed internationally, linking LMS online training to its various human resources departments and ERP systems, to perform multi-locational, cost-effective and efficient training. 

These days, organizations are practically composed of a vast network of individuals and teams to meet all the goals and functions of an organization. An LMS can be not only a helpful way to organize employee training, but service teams can use them to keep track of customers and employee achievements. 

The benefits of peer groups outweigh any potentiality for disaster that prevents more people from tapping into them. These include not only professional benefits, within an organization, but personal ones as well: a sense of team-building and support systems, greater self-esteem, social competence, and better communication skills. Peer groups and virtual or face-to-face teams are a vital resource to any LMS online training program.