Moments of learning in digital learning

Moments of learning in digital learning

A Learning Management System (LMS) is an online platform that serve to manage, track, and assess learning content and training programs. It is widely used in education (schools, universities), corporate training, and professional development.

CORE LEARNING ELEMENTS SUPPORTED BY LMS

The breakdown of how LMS platforms support each critical part of the learning process:

1. FEEDBACK 

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What it is:

Feedback is a significant part of the knowledge cycle it helps the learner to understand their strengths and areas for potential enhancements.

 Types of feedback in LMS:

  • Instructor feedback: Individualized remarks, audio notes, or video messages on assignments or discussion posts.
  • Automated feedback: Instant results for quizzes or tests with explanations for correct/incorrect answers.
  • Peer feedback: Structured opportunities for students to analyse each other’s work, such as peer-reviewed assignments or projects.
  • Rubric-based feedback: Thorough grading guidelines aligned with learning outcomes; students will be able to check out their evaluated papers.

 Why it matters:

  • Opportunities for improvement.
  • Encourages self-correction and growth.
  • When providing feedback in a constructive and timely execution it builds positive mind-set.

 LMS Features Used:

    • Gradebook tools
    • Comment boxes on assignments
    • Rubric builders
    • Audio/video feedback options

2. REFLECTION 

 What it is:

Reflection allows students to grasp what they have learned, assess their progress, and consider future applications of knowledge.

"Education is the key to unlocking the world, a passport to freedom." 

— Oprah Winfrey

 Reflection activities in LMS:

  • Reflective journals: Students consistently pen down their thoughts and learnings by posting and writing blogs.
  • Exit tickets: Quick responses at the end of a lesson to summarize learning.
  • Prompted reflection: A brief question answer segment to evaluate student’s effort, understanding and growth.

 Why it matters:

  • Encourages metacognition (thinking about one’s thinking).
  • Facilitates the application of theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
  • Fosters in-depth learning and introspection.

 LMS Features Used:

  • Journals or blog tools 
  • Assignment submissions with prompts

3. DISCUSSION FORUM

What it is:

Discussion in learning cultivates collaborative knowledge building, critical thinking, and communication skills.

 Discussion strategies in LMS:

  • Discussion forums: Asynchronous posts where students answer a question or debate a topic.
  • Live chat or video: Synchronous tools (like Zoom) allow real-time dialogue.
  • Small group discussions: Breakout spaces for more intimate or focused dialogue.
  • Moderated Q&A boards: Instructors guide and shape conversation by responding to key points.

 Why it matters:

  • Promotes active learning.
  • Builds a learning community.
  • Refine their thoughts and broadens their perspective.

 LMS Features Used:

  • Discussion boards/forums (Moodle, google classroom)
  • Integrated video tools (Zoom, MS Teams, Google Meet)
  • Group work areas

4. DEMONSTRATION 

What it is:

In the process of demonstration, the learners actively show what they have learned, usually through performance, presentation, or problem solving.

 Demonstration examples in LMS:

  • Student video presentations: Record and upload a video to explain a concept or present a project.
  • Skill demonstration videos: Useful in vocational or clinical training.
  • Simulations or interactive exercises: Show competence in realistic scenarios.

Why it matters:

  • Moves beyond memorization to application.
  • Encourages experiential learning.
  • Validates learning outcomes in real contexts.

 LMS Features Used:

  • File upload for videos or multimedia (MP4, PDFs, slides)
  • Embedded simulations 
  • Integration with tools like YouTube

5. ASSESSMENT IN LMS LEARNING

What it is:

In the assessment process, the following aspects are significant for learner progress, mastery of content, and readiness to move forward.

 Types of assessments in LMS:

  • Formative: Low-stakes, ongoing checks for understanding (e.g., weekly quizzes, practice tests).
  • Summative: High-stakes evaluations (e.g., midterms, final exams, major projects).
  • Diagnostic: Pre-assessments to identify current knowledge levels.
  • Authentic assessment: Real-world tasks (e.g., case studies, project-based learning).

 Why it matters:

  • Provides measurable insights into student learning.
  • Supports credentials and certifications.

 LMS Features Used:

  • Quiz tools with varied question types (MCQ, essay, drag-and-drop)
  • Assignment upload tools
  • Auto-grading options
  • Turnitin and other plagiarism checkers
  • Analytics dashboards for performance tracking