Is Moodle the only Open Source LMS? - 11 Open Source LMS

In my personal opinion, Moodle is one of the best options for an open source Learning Management Systems (LMS). However, Moodle is not the only open source LMS.

Here is the list of 11 Oper Source LMS with a brief description. I highly encourage you to visit each LMS site and explore its capabilities pros and cons.

eFront Easily extended with modules available from the site.

Claroline This system is based on specific pedagogical principles. Supports online content tools such as SCORM and Wiki.

ATutor Offers tools for management of learning.

OLAT The winner of the “IMS Learning Impact ‘Leadership Award’ 2009 for best open source learning platform”.

Sakai Aimed at Universities was created by the Sakai Foundation.

Docebo Compatible with SCORM 1.2. Two cool tools that it offers is video conferencing and HR systems like SAP and Oracle

Dokeos Supports converting Office documents into Flash and user synchronization with Oracle and SAP.

ILIAS It offers collaboration tools such as chat and forums, and distribution technologies like RSS and podcasts.

openelms A business solution used by Merrill Lynch.

Ganesha This LMS developed in French but it can be translated.

.LRN Developed at MIT.

Do not forget to follow Moodlers Online on Twitter!!!

Links that I recommend!

• Open Source Learning Management
• 10 open source e-learning projects to watch

Building Online Learning Communities

Recently I read Building Online Learning Communities. It was one of the best books that I had ever read about effective online course development. I believe that you should read this book while you develop your Moodle skills.

Knowing how to use Moodle does not mean that you will be a good online instructors. The fact that you are a good face-to-face instructors does not mean that you will be a good online instructors. I believe that this book is unique and I encourage you to read it.

Furthermore, this book explores the development of virtual classroom environments that foster a sense of community and empower students to take charge of their learning to successfully achieve learning outcomes. This is the second edition of the groundbreaking book by Rena Palloff and Keith Pratt and has been completely updated and expanded to include the most current information on effective online course development and delivery. A practical, hands-on guide, this resource is filled with illustrative case studies, vignettes, and examples from a wide variety of successful online courses. The authors offer proven strategies for handling challenges that include:

• Engaging students in the formation of an online learning community.
• Establishing a sense of presence online.
• Maximizing participation.
• Developing effective courses that include collaboration and reflection.
• Assessing student performance.

Written for faculty in any distance learning environment, this revised edition is based on the authors' many years of work in faculty development for online teaching as well as their extensive personal experience as faculty in online distance education. Rena M. Palloff and Keith Pratt share insights designed to guide readers through the steps of online course design and delivery.

Read Excerpt: Chapter (PDF)
Read Excerpt: Table of Contents (PDF)
Read Excerpt: Index (PDF)

About the Authors:

Rena M. Palloff, Ph.D., and Keith Pratt, Ph.D. are the managing partners of Crossroads Consulting Group. They are the authors of Building Learning Communities in Cyberspace, Collaborating Online, Lessons from the Cyberspace Classroom, and The Virtual Student, all from Jossey-Bass.