{"id":6,"date":"2016-01-09T18:09:31","date_gmt":"2016-01-10T01:09:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/fleming\/?page_id=6"},"modified":"2016-02-15T00:50:41","modified_gmt":"2016-02-15T07:50:41","slug":"delivery-platform-evaluation","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/fleming\/delivery-platform-evaluation\/","title":{"rendered":"Delivery Platform Evaluation"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Precis<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BCCampus is a publicly-funded agency that offers teaching, learning and educational technology support to the 25 post-secondary institutions in British Columbia and 1 in the Yukon. \u00a0As part of its shared services, BCcampus has been running two LMS platforms; one open-sourced (Moodle) and the other vendor based (D2L) whose contract will expire shortly. \u00a0With current restructuring, BCCampus will be losing half of its tech support team in 3 months, and therefore the possibility of running 2 separate LMS platforms is no longer an option. \u00a0BCCampus will need to decide which LMS they wish to proceed with across the board. \u00a0However, as BCCampus is known for its leadership in innovation, they are open to the idea of selecting an entirely new platform. As employees at BCCampus, we have been asked to create an evaluation rubric to help in the decision making process. \u00a0We have designed the rubric to help select an LMS that will fit with the needs, the vision and mandate of BCCampus: to connect, collaborate and innovate. \u00a0The selection process must also recognize the LMS\u2019 ability to conform and to adapt to the geographically and culturally diverse needs of BCcampus\u2019 partner institutions. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Rubric<\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Criteria<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Fair<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Good<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Excellent<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>1. <\/b><b>Access<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS System requirements <\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS requires considerable system upgrade to integrate with the current BCCampus system<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS requires minor system upgrade to be compatible with the current BCCampus system<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS is fully compatible with the current system used by the BCCampus<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Devices<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS can be accessed with limited functionality on mobile phones and tablets<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Certain features of the LMS may not be accessed on mobiles phones and tablets<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS can be accessed using a full range of devices with include mobile phones, tablets, desktop computers<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">System requirements for end users<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS is designed to be used with a particular browser, or requires plugins, or special browser configurations.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS supports the use of more than one browser. May require downloadable app so LMS can run on mobile and other devices.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS runs optimally on Windows Internet Explorer, Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox and requires no special set-up requirements.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>2. <\/b><b>Support<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support available for the interconnectedness of all partner institutions<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> especially as they all need to be at the front of their game to attract students (to exist)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Training support is only available for a time limited period after the LMS is initially set up. Online resources are limited.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Training support is available by phone only during specific hours of the week. There are some online resources.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Training\/ support is available whenever the user has need. Online support are accessible 24\/7.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Training and maintenance support for educators<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IT support is available during regular office hours by email and phone.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IT support is available by email or phone<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IT support is available 24\/7 by email, phone or live chat<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IT support for students<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Student can access IT support by email only; response will be only during office hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Students can access IT support by email or live chat during office hours.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Student can access IT support 24\/7 by email or live chat<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>3. <\/b><b>Functionality<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provide a well thought out interface for all users of the LMS<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS is relatively easy to use<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS is easy to use and possesses some intuitive features<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS has superior scope and sequence, and exceptional insight into the needs of the users \u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Layers and applications of privacy and security that fit necessary applications (medical, legal, personal)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS provides adequate security for many of the applications<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS provides adequate security for most of the applications<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS provides excellent security for all the applications<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS innovations adapt and keep pace with future learners<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Limited design options. Or may require customized work by vendor provider or open source LMS specialist.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some \u201cthemes\u201d available to change, look and structure of user interface. <\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS interface look and feel can be customized by local administrators. The structure and organization is intuitive, and adaptable to fit needs.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>4. <\/b><b>Cost<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are the one-time costs associated with the set-up, implementation, staff training if required, or migration of content to LMS feasible for BC Campus?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Implementation costs are above budget.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Costs are in-line with last years budget forecasts.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Costs are well under budget.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS maintenance (server back-ups, updates, course back-ups, course edits, archiving, staffing, etc) and upkeep costs within budget?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular maintenance will require more financial resources<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular maintenance costs are the same.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular maintenance costs are reduced.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are future (next 4-5 years) costs likely to remain constant or are they fairly unpredictable and will depend on other parties (i.e. vendor).<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No or limited stability in cost for stated time frame. Possibility of increases within 4-5 years.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost is stable for the stated time frame. <\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No foreseeable cost increases in the future. <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>5. <\/b><b>Customization<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS adaptable to changes in technology and user driven initiatives<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">WYSIWYG<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS is adequate in its current services<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS has features that are progressive, but many of those changes were the result of user suggestion<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS is structurally agile and real-time responsive to changes in user needs and changes in technology<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication modalities adjust\/tailored to suit institutions\/educators<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has integrated new technology (e.g. social media) into their services, yet these were integrated poorly and with great technical difficulties<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has successfully integrated new technology (e.g. social media) into their services, yet the integration was not perfectly seamless<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has successfully and seamlessly integrated new technology (e.g. social media) into their services<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adaptable to customized learner paths (self-directed,<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">adaptive, personally curative in the documenting and archiving kind of way, providing avenues of formative assessment)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS has some features, but is limited in scope<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS has features that blend what they can offer with what can be inserted or included by other providers<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS reflects in ways that are superior and extensive; how information is actually interacted with by the user.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>6. <\/b><b>Organizational Requirements<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A\/synchronous communication mediums that facilitate instructor-student, student-student, and student-material\/resource interactions<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic offerings that facilitate simple communication avenues<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS has a variety of formats for facilitating student interactions<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS design is so effective that communication is easily and readily navigated by all users.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is the design of the LMS effective in its cognitive design? <\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spatial and segmented cues are adequate<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS has features that pre-load the user prior to more detailed training<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS design elements are so effective that learners are caught up by learning content rather than medium.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Systemic alignment of LMS with BCcampus and its affiliates<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS fits well with the current mandate of BCCampus, requires some minor adjustments<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS fits very well with the current mandate of BCCampus, requires few minor adjustments<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS fits perfectly with the current mandate of the BCCampus, no additional adjustments<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rationale<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our team has based its rubric on elements of Bates work as well as Chickering and Ehrmann\u2019s seven principles of good practice. We believe the structure and specifics of Bates \u2018SECTIONS\u2019 together with practical guidance of the principles, provided the foundation needed for a well grounded evaluative tool. As Coates points out however, \u201cDecisions about university teaching and learning should not be restricted to checklist evaluations of technical and organizational factors\u201d (2005). With that in mind we also focused the language of our rubric with forward thinking. What is crucial to keeping BCcampus relevant to the geographically and culturally diverse population it serves, and innovatively necessary to its partner institutions? What will help the institution continue its mandate to connect and collaborate by not only keeping pace with learning communities, but expanding with leading-edge vision? We understand this will not be the only tool an evaluation team uses, but believe that the six areas covered will provide a well-rounded summary to the committee.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>References<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bates, T. (2014). Teaching in digital age <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/teachinginadigitalage\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/teachinginadigitalage\/<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Chapter 8 on SECTIONS framework)<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Chickering, A. W., &amp; Ehrmann, S., C. (1996). Implementing the seven principles: Technology as lever. American Association for Higher Education Bulletin, 49(2), 3-6. Retrieved from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.aahea.org\/articles\/sevenprinciples.htm\">http:\/\/www.aahea.org\/articles\/sevenprinciples.htm<\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coates, H., James, R., &amp; Baldwin, G. (2005). A critical examination of the effects of Learning Management Systems on university teaching and learning. Tertiary Education and Management, 11,(1), 19-36. <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11233-004-3567-9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">http:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11233-004-3567-9<\/span><\/a><br \/>\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spiro, K. (2014). 5 elearning trends leading to the end of the Learning Management Systems. Retrieved from <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/elearningindustry.com\/5-elearning-trends-leading-to-the-end-of-the-learning-management-system\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">http:\/\/elearningindustry.com\/5-elearning-trends-leading-to-the-end-of-the-learning-management-system<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Or Version 2.0<\/p>\n<p><b>ETEC 565 Group 1 &#8211; BCcampus<\/b><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Group members:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Danielle Couture<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keri Fleming<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Edwin Fong<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parmdip Gill<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Colleen Huck<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b>Pr\u00e9cis <\/b><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BCcampus is a publicly-funded agency that offers \u201cteaching, learning, and educational technology support\u201c to the 25 post-secondary institutions in British Columbia and one in the Yukon. \u00a0As part of its shared services, BCcampus has been running two LMS platforms; one open-sourced (Moodle) and the other vendor based (D2L) whose contract will expire shortly. \u00a0With current restructuring, BCcampus will be losing half of its tech support team in three months, and therefore the possibility of running two separate LMS platforms is no longer an option. \u00a0BCcampus will need to decide which LMS they wish to proceed with across the board. \u00a0However, as BCcampus is known for its leadership in innovation, they are open to the idea of selecting an entirely new platform. As employees at BCcampus, we have been asked to create an evaluation rubric to help the BCcampus leadership team in the decision making process. \u00a0We have designed the rubric to help select a LMS that will fit with the needs, the vision and the mandate of BCcampus: \u201cto connect, collaborate and innovate\u201c. The selection process must also recognize the LMS\u2019 ability to conform and adapt to the geographically and culturally diverse needs of BCcampus\u2019 partner institutions and the thousands of post-secondary students across the country.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Criteria<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Fair<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Good<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Excellent<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>1. <\/b><b>Access<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS system requirements (compatible with the current system and adaptive to future changes).<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS requires considerable system upgrades to integrate with the current BCcampus system.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS requires minor system upgrades to be compatible with the current BCcampus system.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS is fully compatible with the current system used by the BCcampus.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Devices.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS can be accessed with limited functionality on mobile phones and tablets.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Certain features of the LMS may not be accessed on mobiles phones and tablets.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS can be fully accessed using a full range of devices including: \u00a0mobile phones, tablets, and desktop computers.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">System requirements. <\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS is designed to be used with a particular browser, or requires plugins, or special browser configurations.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS supports the use of more than one browser. May require a downloadable app to run LMS on mobile and other devices.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS runs optimally on Windows Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox and requires no special set-up requirements.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>2. <\/b><b>Support<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support available for the interconnectedness of all partner institutions<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Training\/ support is only available for a time limited period after the LMS is initially set up. Online resources are limited.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Training\/ support is available by phone only during specific hours of the week. There are some online resources.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Training\/ support is available whenever the user has need. Online support is accessible 24\/7.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Training and maintenance support for educators.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IT support is available during regular office hours by email or phone.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IT support is available by email or phone.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IT support is available 24\/7 by email, phone, or live chat.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IT support for students.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Student can access IT support by email only; response will be only during office hours.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Students can access IT support by email or live chat during office hours.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Student can access IT support 24\/7 by email or live chat.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>3. <\/b><b>Functionality<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provides a well thought out interface for all users of the LMS.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS is relatively easy to use.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS is easy to use and possesses some intuitive features.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has superior scope and sequence and exceptional insight into the needs of the users. \u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Layers of privacy and security that accommodate various applications (medical, legal, personal).<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS provides adequate security for many of the applications.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS provides adequate security for most of the applications.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS provides excellent security for all the applications.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS innovations adapt and keep pace with future learners.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Limited design options. May require customized work by vendor, provider or open source LMS specialist.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some \u201cthemes\u201d available to change look and structure of user interface. <\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS interface look and feel can be customized by local administrators. The structure and organization is intuitive, and adaptable to fit needs.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>4. <\/b><b>Cost<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Initiation\/migration costs (set-up, implementation, staff training). <\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Implementation costs are above budget.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Costs are in-line with last year\u2019s budget forecasts.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Costs are well under budget.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS maintenance (server back-ups, updates, course back-ups, course edits, archiving, staffing). <\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular maintenance will require more financial resources.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular maintenance costs are the same.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular maintenance costs are reduced.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Potential future costs (next 4-5 years).<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No or limited stability in cost. Possibility of increases within 4-5 years.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost is stable for the stated time frame. <\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No foreseeable cost increases in the future. <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>5. <\/b><b>Customization <\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS is adaptable to changes in technology and user driven initiatives.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS is adequate in its current services.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has features that are progressive, but many of those changes were the result of user suggestions.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS is structurally agile and responsive to changes in user needs and developments in technology.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication modalities.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has limited integration of new technology into their services; tools such as social media are not capitalized<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> on.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has integrated new tools and technology, such as social media, yet it does not enhance the user\u2019s experience.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has successfully and seamlessly integrated new tools and technology, such as social media, that enhances the user\u2019s experience. <\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ability to customize learning paths (documentation, archiving, formative assessment).<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has some features, but is limited in scope.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has features that blend what they can offer with what can be inserted or included by other providers.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS reflects in ways that are superior and extensive how information is actually interacted with by the user.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td colspan=\"4\"><b>6. <\/b><b>Organizational Requirements<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A\/synchronous communication mediums that facilitate interactions between: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1) instructor &#8211; student <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2) student &#8211; student<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3) student &#8211; resources<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has basic offerings that facilitate simple communication avenues.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has a variety of formats for facilitating student interactions.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LMS design enables easy and effective communication options all interaction types.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cognitive design.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The spatial and segmented cues of the LMS are adequate. <\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS has features that pre-load the user prio<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">r<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to more detailed training.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The design elements of the LMS are effective so that learners are focused on the learning content rather than the medium.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Systemic alignment of LMS with BCcampus and its affiliates.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS fits well with the current mandate of BCcampus. \u00a0The LMS requires some minor adjustments.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS fits very well with the current mandate of BCcampus. \u00a0The LMS requires few minor adjustments.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The LMS fits perfectly with the current mandate of the BCcampus. No additional adjustments are required.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b>Rationale<\/b><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our LMS evaluation rubric is based on elements of the Bates SECTIONS model as well as Chickering and Ehrmann\u2019s seven principles of good practice. As Coates points out, \u201cdecisions about university teaching and learning should not be restricted to checklist evaluations of technical and organizational factors\u201d (2005). With that in mind, we did not limit our rubric to standard evaluation criteria, rather we designed the rubric around the specific needs of BCcampus; developing six high-level criteria encompassing the primary concerns of the agency: Access, Support, Functionality, Cost, Customization, and Organizational Requirements. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With 25 affiliates, the importance of versatility without restrictions is paramount. A system that can be accessed by every institution, device and end user, without compromise to functionality, will keep BCcampus at the forefront of innovation. Further, the BCcampus IT support will be reduced in three months making system compatibility an important requirement.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Secondly, it is important that the selected LMS provides support to all users. IT support must be available for BCcampus, the institutions, and the individual users, as these stakeholders might require different assistance at various times. If teachers and learners are not well supported then there is a high risk that the LMS may not be used at all (Bates, 2014).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The functionality of the LMS is an integral criteria for BCcampus to maintain their leadership in innovation by empowering the current and future learners through intuitive user interfaces. \u00a0Furthermore, the functionality should not compromise the security and privacy of its users in order for open discussions to occur without consequences (Bates, 2014).<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BCcampus uses an innovative collaborative model that allows various post-secondary institutions to share resources and costs (BCcampus, 2013). Participating institutions can access the resources and technologies they would not be able to individually. BCcampus must have information about the initial implementation, and future LMS maintenance costs in order to budget effectively. This in turn, will affect the participating institutions and their budgeting. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As Spiro mentioned, students are increasingly taking charge of their own learning; gone are the days of one-size-fits-all courses (2014). This mentality calls for a LMS platform that is customizable &#8211; allowing students and teachers alike, the opportunity to curate their own learning path. Further, BCcampus is looking for a long term LMS, meaning it has to be adaptable and able to integrate with new technologies in order to meet the needs of its diverse student population.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lastly, BCcampus provides a leading-edge collaborative interface. \u00a0As such, the LMS it uses must have strong cognitive design in its structural components, align with the mandates of its partners, and provide exceptional modalities for communication. We understand this will not be the only tool an evaluation team uses, but believe that the six areas covered will provide a well-rounded summary to the committee. <\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b>References<\/b><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bates, T. (2014). Teaching in digital age <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/teachinginadigitalage\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">http:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/teachinginadigitalage\/<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (Chapter 8 on SECTIONS framework)<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BCcampus. (September 2013). <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Annual Report 2012-2013, Strategic Plan 2013-2016<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, \u00a0Retrieved from: <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/bccampus.ca\/files\/2013\/10\/2013-ar-stratplan.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">http:\/\/bccampus.ca\/files\/2013\/10\/2013-ar-stratplan.pdf<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chickering, A. W., &amp; Ehrmann, S., C. (1996). Implementing the seven principles: Technology as lever. American Association for Higher Education Bulletin, 49(2), 3-6. Retrieved from <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.aahea.org\/articles\/sevenprinciples.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">http:\/\/www.aahea.org\/articles\/sevenprinciples.htm<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coates, H., James, R., &amp; Baldwin, G. (2005). A critical examination of the effects of Learning Management Systems on university teaching and learning. Tertiary Education and Management, 11,(1), 19-36. <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11233-004-3567-9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">http:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s11233-004-3567-9<\/span><\/a><br \/>\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spiro, K. (2014). 5 elearning trends leading to the end of the Learning Management Systems. Retrieved from <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/elearningindustry.com\/5-elearning-trends-leading-to-the-end-of-the-learning-management-system\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">http:\/\/elearningindustry.com\/5-elearning-trends-leading-to-the-end-of-the-learning-management-system<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Precis BCCampus is a publicly-funded agency that offers teaching, learning and educational technology support to the 25 post-secondary institutions in British Columbia and 1 in the Yukon. \u00a0As part of its shared services, BCcampus has been running two LMS platforms; one open-sourced (Moodle) and the other vendor based (D2L) whose contract will expire shortly. \u00a0With [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":34493,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-6","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/fleming\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/fleming\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/fleming\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/fleming\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/34493"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/fleming\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/fleming\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/fleming\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6\/revisions\/27"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/fleming\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}