One of the most asked questions regarding online education is how online classrooms function in terms of technology and software. Online classrooms typically rely on learning management systems that allow students to take their classroom on the go and are accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.

Classroom technology basics

A learning management system is, at its most basic, an interface that allows student progress to be tracked by teachers, and the students themselves. Most colleges employ some form of this, online school or traditional. These tools allow students to login to view grades or register for courses. Some common examples of these systems are Blackboard, Moodle, or Angel Learning Management Suite.

Some basic uses you should be aware of include:

• Choosing classes
• Viewing grades
• Tracking course progress
• Downloading class resources

Teachers can post assignments, calendars, or other documents for class, all in one place. This makes it easy to keep track of multiple courses in one convenient place.

Many of these systems now allow for a variety of media to be uploaded and shared by both students and professors, including audio and video. Instead of reading out of a book, students may now have the option to watch taped lectures by professors or listen to content to increase the variety of material students are able to learn from. Learning management systems are moving from simply tracking classes, to becoming a more interactive base for online education.

For example, Blackboard has partnered with Adobe to create online platforms where people can share presentations, stream video, and even live message with professors. It not only makes online learning more interactive, but keeps students and professors closer with more ways to communicate.

But if you’re not the most technology-savvy, don’t worry – there are a number of tutorials and walkthroughs to help students develop skills and utilize the programs fully.

What programs are top online schools using?

Each online school may utilize a different online learning system, but most include similar features to those described above. Here are a few examples of online classroom technology…

The University of Phoenix employs their “Online Campus” where students have the ability to work in groups, worldwide, in addition to all of the basic class features such as the discussion forum. Additionally, for students looking into hybrid programs, Phoenix’s FlexNet system allows students taking both online and on campus courses to track their progress easily and provides flexibility for students who are taking a variety of courses.

Westwood College, on the other hand, uses the MyPATH online learning system. Westwood students will receive training in how to use this system before taking any classes. During this time, there are instructors available to help students learn the tools, making it easier when classes get underway. The training for MyPath includes completing tasks, such as interacting in online discussions, planning a schedule, and submitting assignments.

American Sentinel University utilizes yet another common platform called Moodle. This is a free option that teachers, schools, or individuals can employ to make learning and sharing content easier. It can include blogs, forums, course materials, and course credit information, along with almost anything else you can need.