The Differences Between A K-12 And University LMS, And Why They Should Stick Around

The Differences Between A K-12 And University LMSs
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Summary: If it weren’t for LMSs, education today would still be at a standstill thanks to COVID-19. Let’s go over the importance of LMSs in K-12, universities, and beyond.

Definition Of LMS

LMSs or “learning management systems” are a kind of software that was designed with online learning in mind. The specialized software aims to make the online learning experience run as smoothly as possible while helping students learn in ways that work best for them.

The Different LMS Software Options

Not all K-12 and university LMSs are made the same. Different systems will have different features and requirements. Some LMSs come already programed for teachers’ and students’ exact needs, while others require some configuration.

The cost of each LMS software will also vary. Not surprisingly, a university LMS that offers complete customization and advanced features will cost more than others with less personalization. But for those on a tight budget, there are even free LMS programs available. But in the end, what you pay for is what you get.

The price tag on some LMS software isn't without reason. The data that these learning management systems can provide educators and employers with is unlike anything ever seen before in classrooms. And the more data an educator has about their students, the easier it is for them to improve and try out different teaching strategies. Being able to track a student’s progress and performance through detailed analysis can be incredibly beneficial to both the teacher and the student.

K-12 LMS Features

K-12 learning management systems focus on offering educators, students, and even parents an easy and hassle-free experience. Most of these platforms on the market today, such as Google Classroom or Edmondo, allow teachers to post quizzes and homework for easy student and parent access. These systems also offer messaging and communications options so parents and teachers can stay in touch, and not just parents and teachers, but also educators and administrators from others schools as well.

A great LMS program for K-12 will offer easy-to-use course planning and hierarchy tools to ensure easy lesson planning and structure. Games and interactive learning tools are also a key element of most LMS software, which is a huge plus, as interactive learning has been proven to be highly effective.

University LMS Qualities

One area in the learning sector that is in need of an overhaul is universities. University LMSs can be incredibly beneficial if implemented correctly. COVID-19 has shown us just how effective University LMSs can be. Programs like Absorb LMS and CertCentral offer users more complex training and work great for university students' needs for continuous education.

The flexibility that LMSs can offer university teachers and students is unmatchable. The LMS software available today can help students keep all their classes organized and makes planning a lesson for teachers a breeze. When students and teachers have more flexibility, they coincidentally have more time for learning and also for taking much-needed breaks in order to absorb information.

With the expenses of university continuing to spiral out of control, colleges and higher education programs could drastically raise their enrollment rates through the help of University LMSs. More people would have the opportunity to enroll in higher education, and this would be a huge improvement and a smart investment for our future.

Aside from lowering tuition fees, university LMSs could also help administrators and teachers in the overall management of universities. College campuses all around the world can vary in size, but more often than not, are heavily populated with many buildings stretching miles apart. A well-programed LMS could cut out much of the stress and hassle that educators face each day, running from classroom to classroom.

K-12 And University LMSs Should Continue To Be Implemented

When you combine all the benefits of an LMS, the conclusion is obvious. Online learning can help solve many of the issues that are plaguing the education systems of today. And not only that, but online learning has also proven to be much more environmentally friendly, which, at this point, is not only a plus but should be considered a necessity.

Of course, online learning and LMSs will take some time to get used to. But that’s just a part of being human, isn’t it? Being able to adapt to change is an important ability for mankind to have. Why would we not want to set our future up for success and begin to make the switch to an LMS today instead of tomorrow when it may be too late?