An argument for clarity: what are learning management systems, what are they not, and what should they become?

Abstract

This is the pre-print version. The final publication is available at www.springerlink.com (see link below).

This article argues that greater attention is needed in using non-standardized terms describing the application of computers to education, particularly in regard to Learning Management Systems (LMS). It presents a definition of LMS as a systemic infrastructure that manages the learning process of an entire organization and contrasts LMS with related but conceptually different terms often confused with LMS: Course Management Systems (CMS) and Learning Content Management Systems (LCMS). Learning Objects (LO) and their relation to LMS are often discussed as is the relationship among these different technologies. LMS is identified as a necessary technology to effectively implement the new approaches to instruction suitable for the Information age which are required to break away from the inefficient approaches of the Industrial Age. A description of the current trends and future requirements of LMSs are presented as well as recommendations for future research. (http://www.springerlink.com/content/r1ur45g5t3225553/)