A learning management system (LMS) is a software application that handles all aspects of the learning process – housing, creating, delivering and tracking learning. For more content like this, check out the full Acorn Resources blog: https://acornlms.com/resources

1. Learning Management Systems
Evolution and Functionalities

2. What is an LMS?
A learning management system (LMS) is a software application that
handles all aspects of the learning process – housing, creating,
delivering and tracking learning.

3. Core LMS Functionality
1) Learning facilitation and goalsetting (user-based intention)
2) Learning assessment and management (instructor-led process)
3) Supporting learning as part of workforce plans (organisational)

4. Engaging Learners
The learning needs of adults are incredibly diverse and directly
impacted by personal priorities, lifestyle, health and employers,
among other things.
To ensure learning is a priority and engaging, you need to think about
how an LMS can help facilitate, motivate and engage its users. This
can be achieved in 2 ways:

5. Self-Directed Learning
Also known as asynchronous learning, self-directed learning involves an LMS providing a
framework for individuals to undertake training at any time on any device.
Social Learning
Also known as synchronous learning, social learning is informal and sees learners
validate new knowledge by sharing it and affirming it against others’ understanding.

6. Changing Learning Dynamics
We’ve moved from an educational dynamic in which the learner-
teacher relationship is outcome-oriented and based on a power
structure, to one that is rooted in collaboration and process focused.
The core ethos of the LMS has always been that the learner is not a
passive actor, but rather the driver of learning.

7. The Evolving LMS
The most innovative changes in LMS technology have occurred as the
first tech-savvy generation entered the workforce (yes, we mean
millennials).
Today, rather than being a tool solely for learning, the LMS supports all
areas of the business. The future is less about learning environments
and more about human-centred learning experiences.

8. LMS
Functionalities

9. Feature vs Functionality
The features of an LMS are what drive its functionality.
Most LMS vendors service certain industries, so they are more
comfortable with or focus energy on the features that complement
those industry activities. Think about your own business needs and
goals and what functionality you might need to support them.

10. Learning Pathways
These are an individualised approach where instead of creating a
course load for an entire learner cohort, you create one to
address the skills or knowledge gaps of one. They group content
in increments so learners can obtain knowledge in a logical way.

11. Reporting Analytics
Reporting gives you the data to determine the impact and
effectiveness of your current resources and pathways. Robust
reporting capabilities can be used to forecast the learning
resources you may need in future or to mitigate future problems.

12. Gamification
Essentially a tool for motivation, gamification incentivises the learning
process and seeks to change behaviours. Successful gamification
triggers a desire for mastery, autonomy and completion amongst
peers through real-time feedback, which drives behavioural change.

13. Anytime, Anywhere
Bring-your-own-device compatibility is key to ensuring learners
can actually complete training at their own convenience. Screen
and device-friendly design isn’t just about serving the needs of a
dispersed workforce, it’s also crucial for learners with disabilities.

14. Things To Avoid
When Procuring

15. Judge by hype
Innovation for innovation’s sake is not valuable. For example, virtual reality may be
enticing, but it isn’t easy to develop nor particularly affordable.
Expect the same result as others
Reading case studies, success stories and use cases are an excellent gauge of what an
LMS and its vendor could do for you, but keep in mind every client is different.

16. Consider every feature a ‘must have’
Features should serve a functional purpose and address your needs and goals in some form. By
cramming all features in, you end up with a bloated system that over-complicates the user experience
Rely on brand
Just because the brand isn’t famous, doesn’t mean a product isn’t right for your needs and
budget. Judge by their reputation amongst current clients to gauge quality of service.

17. Resist foreign processes
Fear of change and growing pains are universal and normal. They can be mitigated with buy-
in, training and a demonstration of exactly how the new process will improve users’ lives.
Unknowingly hold bias for current system
If you believe your current LMS is the worst out there, even the most average LMS will look
great. Likewise, thinking you have the best LMS obscures your ability to see a better fit for your
evolving needs.

18. You can learn more about this topic by
checking out the full eBook:
https://acornlms.com/resources/learning-
management-system