A Comparison of Open Source Learning Management Systems

Abstract This paper focuses on the comparison communication tools of six open source learning management systems (LMS). It compares the whiteboard/video services, discussion forums, file exchange/internal mail, online journal mail, and real live chat features of each of the LMS's. There are so many open source LMS out there due to this fact it is a bit tedious looking for a suitable one that will meet the instructors needs. This paper seeks to make it easier for instructors that want to make the best choice when choosing a learning management system by revealing which learning management system has the best communication tools. It also focuses on 6 popular LMS, ATutor, Claroline, Dokeos, Ilias, Moodle, and Sakai. The comparison of the six open source LMSs showed that Moodle and ATutor have the best communication tools with user friendly interface.

[1]  Nadire Cavus,et al.  Selecting a learning management system (LMS) in developing countries: instructors' evaluation , 2013, Interact. Learn. Environ..

[2]  Sofia Stamou,et al.  An adaptive and personalized open source e-learning platform , 2010 .

[3]  Nadire Cavus,et al.  The evaluation of Learning Management Systems using an artificial intelligence fuzzy logic algorithm , 2010, Adv. Eng. Softw..

[4]  Cristina Segal,et al.  Methods to evaluate open source learning platforms , 2011, 2011 IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference (EDUCON).

[5]  Jaime Lloret,et al.  A Study of Virtual Learning Environments , 2009 .

[6]  Klaus Brandl,et al.  Are you ready to "Moodle"? , 2005 .

[7]  Morten Flate Paulsen,et al.  Experiences with Learning Management Systems in 113 European Institutions , 2003, J. Educ. Technol. Soc..

[8]  Brian Fitzgerald,et al.  A framework analysis of the open source software development paradigm , 2000, ICIS.

[9]  Klaus Brandl.  Review of Are You Ready to "Moodle"? , 2005 .

[10]  Mohamad Yusof Darus,et al.  Evaluation of an Open Source Learning Management System: Claroline , 2012 .

[11]  Beate List,et al.  An evaluation of open source e-learning platforms stressing adaptation issues , 2005, Fifth IEEE International Conference on Advanced Learning Technologies (ICALT'05).

[12]  Sergio Takeo Kofuji,et al.  Methodologies, Tools and New Developments for E-Learning , 2012 .

[13]  Cansu Cigdem Aydin,et al.  OPEN SOURCE LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN DISTANCE LEARNING , 2010 .

[14]  N. Ruiz Reyes,et al.  Comparing open-source e-learning platforms from adaptivity point of view , 2009, 2009 EAEEIE Annual Conference.

[15]  Alex Koohang,et al.  Open Source: A Metaphor for E-Learning , 2005, Informing Sci. Int. J. an Emerg. Transdiscipl..