This week I am going to talk about learning management systems (LMS).  An LMS is a software program that allows teachers to deliver electronic educational content trainings or programs.  They allow a teacher to supply course content, facilitate discussions, track attendance, record grades, go paperless (with assignments and tests), and join learning communities.  Edmodo and Schoology are two such LMS's.  Click above on their names for links to these systems.

Both LMS are set-up similar to Facebook which makes its use a little easier for teachers, students, and parents.  Yes!  Even parents can sign-up for a log in to monitor their students progress.  Edmodo and Schoology both have similar features such as parent log in, ability to post files or video resources, grade book, and include a calendar feature.  Teachers can also create assignments, quizzes/tests, and polls.

Edmodo: 

Overview of Edmodo

Here are some great features that Edmodo offers.  They have a badge system that teachers can set up to award students when they have made progress or achieved a goal.  This motivational tool will get students excited.  The feature that I think is really cool is Snapshot!  This new feature allows teachers to assess students progress towards grade level standards.  The teacher can choose the subject and standards  to be assessed.  Edmodo has preloaded questions and gives a report of results on the student's performance on the standards being assessed.  What teacher does not like data!  Here is a video clip on this feature.

For more tutorial videos on the amazing features that Edmodo has to offer visit YouTube and search under "Edmodo tutorials for teachers."

Schoology:

Overview of Schoology

Schoology has many great features that make it a useful tool for the classroom.  Videos and materials such as files from your computer can be directly added to your posts.  It has a resource file that allows you to add media, but it also allows media to be added directly.  Adding media was simple and easy to complete.  The ease of use of this site is clear.  Here are some great videos to help you in exploring the benefits of this LMS.

Using Schoology in the Classroom

Organizing Your Blended Course Using Schoology

More videos can be found on YouTube by searching "Schoology tutorials for teachers."

I encourage you to explore these two educational tools to see which works best for your setting.

Enjoy exploring!