Week Two: CMS (Course Management Software)

My feelings are mixed.

I think CMS is a great tool for undergrad education if it's used properly and designed in a useful way.

In my time spent at Mac I've used three systems: Learn Link, WebCT and Moodle. I don't even really feel like talking about Learn Link.... we used it when I was in second year a couple times... and then I never heard about it again... and for good reason. The design was confusing and even though I spent the time to figure out how the program worked... I still had assignments lost, or was registered in the wrong section of a class.......... it was just messy. WebCT is a big step up from Learn Link because it's simple and effective. WebCT doesn't have all the bells and whistles of Moodle, but it's easy for someone with basic computer knowledge to figure out. The prof posts something... you download it. Simple. I think WebCT is sufficient enough for any program. Moodle is my personal favourite... because of the bells and whistles. I quite enjoy logging on and having Moodle remind me when my next assignment's due. I'm not sure however, if this system might be a little too complex for the basic level of computer knowledge. The "Key Findings" from the ECAR article noted that students use computers mainly for e mail, creating documents, creating presentations and accessing their school's website; Moodle might be a little too advanced for the norm.

I have tree hugging tendancies and absolutely love how the various CMSs at Mac are cutting back the use of paper (and cost of courseware!!), but my beef lies in the fact that there's too many to choose from. In my perfect world the university would choose one system to work with.

The results found that most students who use CMS in their courses found it beneficial.... I think this could be for a couple reasons:
1. All the information is in one place - there's no losing papers or not being able to read the notes you took in class etc.
2. Learning can continue even when class is over - if the professor thinks of something he or she forgot to mention in lecture, the information can immediately be disseminated through the system
3. It allows flexibility - students have the ability to contact each other or their professors at any time of day, they can have group meetings in the comfort of their home etc.