LMS (Learning Management System) and CMS (Course Management
System) are management systems used for online learning. Traditionally, LMCs
have had more to offer, but as technology changes the two are often confused
with each other and combined. Needless to say, it does not really matter the
name, as long as the system is keeping the online learning program running
efficiently, it does not matter the name or the system. So what does an online
learning management system need? Obviously, administration, documentation, tracking, reporting and delivery of
electronic content is important, but the systems need to be differentiated
based on needs and budget.
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Roles of a CMS
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Roles of LMS
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Holds Course material
Learner assessment
Discussion forum
Storage
Review of data
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Registration of learners
Tracking
Testing
Discussions
Fee processing
Scheduling courses
Managing skills
Managing blended learning
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Drawbacks
of CMS
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Drawbacks
of LMS
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Narrower in scope
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Price
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The perception of CMS is they are fine for an online
learning or blended learning environment, but they do not have the management
needs of an LMS. Although, an LMS is not
used to create course content. So, is there something in between? A learning
content management system (LCMS) is technology that can do does both. LCMS can
merged product that manage information and develop and deliver course content
to students.
According to Sarah Danzl, “Modern LCMSs manage every aspect
of the learning process, both informal and formal, from rapid authoring to
delivery. The system can be used to develop collaborative content with design
templates, reuse content nuggets across courses and learning departments,
import content from other authoring tools, and publish the content across
multiple outputs and devices.”
Although LCMS are not as popular, they may be the answer to
personalizing learning. Since content can be adjusted, created and revised,
they can meet the learners’ needs.
So when do you need a LMS or LCMS?
I think once your program has grown to a particular size,
the need is there. A CMS cannot adapt as well. While a LMS or LCMS offers consistency
in instruction. In addition it can track and analyze data and manage content.
These are tasks that become more difficult as an online learning program grows.
Danzl, Sarah. "Content Development." LCMS vs LMS:
What Is the Difference? Training Industry, 29 July 2015. Web. 08 June 2016.
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