Abstract

This will be a panel (of one) discussion about the challenges and rewards of making an open source LMS the university’s enterprise LMS. I’ll share the dilemmas and the rewards of dealing with early adopters, non- adopters, skeptical administrators, realizing a true cost savings, integrating with other enterprise systems, and generating enthusiasm versus managing expectations. Bring your questions and concerns and we will share mistakes and successes so other open source enthusiasts can find even greater success in their efforts.

Slides for Presentation

Open Source LMS Advocacy at Weber State University: Challenges and Opportunities

Although Weber State has been using the Blackboard/WebCT LMS for the
last six years, it has also been investigating the promise of open
source learning management systems. Weber’s rationales for deploying
an open source LMS will be outlined, and the strategies and challenges
that Weber has faced in pursuing open source will be discussed.
Participants will be invited to share their own experiences and
concerns with open source learning management systems.

Objectives of the presentation (what are you planning to do)

A case study of how open source LMSs are being deployed (and evaluated) at Weber State University.

Practical Applications (how can your results/strategies be used by others)

Consider some of the merits and demerits of open source learning management systems.

Bio

Luke Fernandez is Assistant Manager of Program and Technology Development at Weber State University. On the side he writes articles on university IT issues and teaches adjunct courses in a number of learning management systems. His blog is at http://itintheuniversity.blogspot.com