Saving time or innovating practice: Investigating perceptions and uses of Learning Management Systems

• Published in: Computers and education Vol. 53; no. 3; pp. 686 - 694
• Main Authors: Lonn, Steven, Teasley, Stephanie D.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01-11-2009; Elsevier
• Subjects: College Instruction; Computer Mediated Communication; Distributed learning environments; Educational Innovation; Educational Practices; Educational Technology; Efficiency; Instructional Effectiveness; Integrated Learning Systems; Interactive learning environments; Item Analysis; Learning Management Systems; Post-secondary education; Student Attitudes; Surveys; Teacher Attitudes; Teaching/learning strategies; Technology Integration; Distributed learning environments; Teaching/learning strategies; Interactive learning environments; Learning Management Systems; Post-secondary education
• ISSN: 0360-1315; 1873-782X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compedu.2009.04.008

Learning Management Systems (LMS) are web-based systems that allow instructors and/or students to share materials, submit and return assignments, and communicate online. In this study, we explored the uses and perceived benefits of using a LMS to support traditional classroom teaching as reported by instructors and students at a large American Midwestern university. We examined two years of survey data focusing on specific uses of the LMS that emphasized either efficient communication or interactive teaching and learning practices. We matched aggregate user log data with corresponding survey items to see if system use was consistent with patterns seen in the survey results. Findings suggest that instructors and students value tools and activities for efficient communication more than interactive tools for innovating existing practices. However, survey item analysis reveals that instructors and students also highly value the teaching and learning tools within the LMS.