ELearning 2.0: Learning Management Systems Readiness

Abstract

Nowadays, internet becomes more user centered allowing two-way exchange of information. People become creators of knowledge and materials instead of passive readers or consumers. This advancement of web technologies and its applications known as web 2.0. In education, the integration of web 2.0 technologies and tools into educational and institutional practice is called eLearning 2.0. Researches stress on the importance of implementing eLearning 2.0 in the learning process. Universities and schools are investing substantial amounts of time and money in implementing learning management systems (LMS). If not designed with eLearning 2.0 support in mind, the LMS can pose difficulty for instructors and students to benefit from these technologies through LMS directly. The aim of this study is to evaluate the readiness of learning management systems to support eLearning 2.0. This research reviewed the literature for the most common web 2.0 tools used in eLearning process. Six tools were identified Wikis, blogs, RSS, pod casts, book marking and virtual environments. Then an evaluation model was developed and applied on two respective learning management systems Black Board and MOODLE. The results of readiness evaluation shows that MOODLE is more ready for eLearning 2.0 than Black Board. Anyhow, the findings of this study provide several important implications for learning management system research and management.