This document summarizes a presentation about using the open-source platform Drupal to serve as a learning management system (LMS) at Penn State, as an alternative to their existing Angel LMS. It describes conducting a pilot study using Drupal for an engineering leadership course, with 20-30 students. The presentation demonstrates the functionality of the Drupal-based LMS, including syllabus, modules, assignments, forums and calendar features. It concludes with an evaluation of transitioning from Angel to Drupal based on designer and student feedback, discussing pros and cons, and next steps.
1. Using Open-Sourced Platform to Facilitate Students’ Learning: An Implementation of Drupal as a Learning Management System I-Pang Fu Naifen Su Dr. Wesley Donahue Sep 29, 2011 @ Columbus, GA
3. Background Angel is the official LMS at Penn State The University started to search for new LMS or keep using Angel within 2 years Demand of hybrid/online courses increases at Penn State Faculty members’ expectation about LMS Students’ expectation about LMS
4. Problem(s) Where to find pilot group without trouble? Who should be included in pilot group? What should be moved into new platform? What is the time frame? Will it work?
5. Pilot Study Engineering students with leadership minor Traditional course is provided in tri-semester 20 to 30 students per semester Most of them are junior, senior, or super senior students Discussion, team work, and presentation are the main tasks in this course
6. Pilot Study (Conti.) In the past, students used Angel to access everything about the class.
7. Pilot Study (Conti.) But it is not easy to manage everything for students or for faculty members.
8. Since Summer 2011, we used Drupal to serve as a LMS for the students. Integrated with Social Media (Facebook & LinkEdin) Continuing improvement anytime and anywhere. Cross browsers and devices. Getting feedback from students every day. Pilot Study (Conti.)
