There are many definitions
of a learning management system or LMS. The most basic and popular definition
is that an LMS is an application that controls, manages, monitors, and
evaluates training or educational programs. A vigorous Learning Management Systems
software should centralize and automate management, leverage self-service,
rapidly assemble and deliver learning content, integrate training programs onto
a scalable web-based platform, support portability and standards, and
personalize content and knowledge reuse.



Kaplan-Leiserson,
editorial director of Prism at American society for Engineering Education,
provides the following definition for LMS: “LMS (learning management system):
Software that automates the administration of training events. The LMS registers
users, tracks courses in a catalog, and records data from learners; it also
provides reports to management. An LMS is typically designed to handle courses
by multiple publishers and providers. It usually doesn't include its authoring
capabilities; instead, it focuses on managing courses created by a variety of
other sources.”



In the field of education,
there is a robust worldwide trend toward learning management systems in
institutions that go beyond traditional teaching methods. This is because there
are many benefits to learners, educators, and the institution itself. Earlier,
the learning management systems were limited as an assistance tool. Now, with
the advancement of technology, many features and add-ons are available on the
LMS. For example, learners can review lectures, take exams, provide feedback,
submit assignments, and discuss with their peers through LMS.



The widespread use of LMS
in educational institutions is due to several factors. The prime factor is the
advancement of information and communication technology (ICT). It has led to
the efficient installation of technology applications in institutions to reduce
monotonous teaching styles. HD video broadcasting, video conferencing, virtual
classrooms, and flipped or hybrid classrooms are common teaching methods in
modern times.



The introduction of learning
management systems occurred in the 1900s. The first Learning
Management Systems technology was created by SoftArc, in 1990, under the name
'FirstClass'. It is a client-server software with basic and useful functions,
such as email, forums, and online meetings. The software is compatible to run
on different operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and macOS. Later with
the increase in competition, the software was updated with the latest features
and technology. Currently, learning management systems are used to organize and
allow students, teachers, and administrators to access various functions of
online learning services.



Learning Management
Systems are beneficial for learners, educators, and institutes in several ways.
For learners, LMS helps in improving their academic performance. When the courses
are offered in the LMS platform, all the study materials are centralized and
are readily available for learners. Revised learning is smartly possible
through video lectures, discussion forums, PDF documents, PPTs, assignments,
and tests using LMS platforms. By combining texts, videos, and images, in the
study materials, the course becomes more engaging and interesting. Hence,
students learn with focus and enthusiasm. LMS portals allow gamification of
course and the creation of quizzes that also improves students' focus. It leads
students to perform better and the software monitors and evaluates the
student’s performance. The educator can share the feedback for formative and
summative tasks with students through LMS. Similarly, educators or organizations
can collect feedback from learners through feedback forms and group
discussions.



For educators, LMS portal
facilitates reducing the cost of course development. The programs can be
offered online discarding the physical location. Since the courses created by
the educators are not limited to a particular type, location, or timeline of
learners, the coverage of the course is enormous. It results in the reduction
of the cost of learning per person and makes learning more affordable. Learning
Management Systems track the performance of learners, which motivates educators
to teach smartly and efficiently. With the software, educators can efficiently
distribute class materials and resources in multiple forms. It enables diverse
assessment options such as one/multi-line answers, multiple choice answers,
essay questions, fill-in gaps, and agreement scale questions.



For institutions, LMS portal facilitates the setting up of
different access points. Learning Management System provides exclusive portals
for educators, learners, guardians, and management heads. With the application,
parents or guardians have access to course details, outlines, and assessment
information. Thereby, they can monitor and analyze the performance of the
learner.


In the current digitalized world, implementing a Learning Management
System is the aptest and fittest survival method for all ed

Hello, I would like to join the conversation about learning management systems, please tell me where I can find learning management services for small businesses? Thanks in advance for your answer.

Hello! Yes, I have worked with several such programs and can share my experience. I would like to note the convenience in managing training, access to materials from anywhere in the world and the ability to individualize the learning process here https://lmschef.com/lms-for-small-business/ . However, it is worth considering that some LMS can be difficult to set up and take time to master.