Introduction to Adaptive LMSs

Video Transcription

Hi, my name is Ashley. And today's lesson is titled, "Introduction to Adaptive LMSes." In today's lesson, we will define, what is a learning management system? How can learning management systems assist adaptive learning? And what are best practices for using an adaptive LMS?

A learning management system is a combination of digital tools and software that manages the learning process. Not only does it provide and deliver the instructional content, but it assesses learning and tracks the student's progress while collecting data for documentation. According to Mukherjee, an adaptive learning system is a unique type of LMS that is individualized based on students needs. It creates a personalized pathway depending on what the student has demonstrated as learned knowledge. The adaptive learning system assigns tasks based on student's current level of academic performance with a certain skill or topic.

How can learning management systems assist adaptive learning? One way is by promoting robust learning. It's not enough to just provide information and some multimedia elements like videos and images. That doesn't really ensure actual learning. However, to promote robust learning, needs to carefully organize instruction and individualized learning experiences to the needs of the student.

Another strength of the learning management system that assists with adaptive learning is to provide instruction that caters to various learning styles. Students don't all learn in the same way. And this tool differentiates the instruction, which, as a result, engages students in learning.

What are best practices for using an adaptive learning management system? According to Feldstein, although adaptive learning can be an effective tool in the classroom, it is not the magic bullet for addressing all learning. In other words, we can't find a quick fix that solves everything or that takes the place of actual teaching. There are a few things the teacher must understand as he or she implements adaptive learning management systems into their classroom.

The teacher must understand how the software adapts to students' needs. This includes understanding the strengths and limitations of the software. So this means the teacher should take the time to review the learning management system and go through it as if you were the student to make sure that you understand all the capabilities of the program.

The teacher should also be knowledgeable of the concept it's teaching and what assistance can be provided. So like I mentioned before, as you're taking that time to review the system, you know all the ins and outs, and you know how to provide assistance when your students need it. Lastly, the teacher should understand that the learning management system does not-- does not-- provide all the instruction, all the time, every day. Although it is an effective tool, it doesn't replace the interaction between the teacher and the student.

In today's lesson, we defined what LMS is. A Learning Management System is a combination of digital tools that manages the learning process. Learning management systems assist adaptive learning by promoting robust learning and catering to various learning styles. Also, teachers must understand how the system is used in order to implement it in their classroom, and be aware that a learning management system does not take the place of the teacher-student interaction.

Consider how you can use learning management systems in your classroom. Remember to also pair learning management systems with traditional interactions. As you reflect on how this new information can be applied, you may want to explore the additional resources section that accompanies this video presentation. This is where you'll find links to resources chosen to help you deepen your learning and explore ways to apply your newly acquired skill set.