Navigate: Describe Roles and Functions in Online Learning Environments 1.2.1

1.2.1 Describe Roles and Functions in Online Learning Environments

The online learning environment is comprised of several interactive roles structured to interact for the purpose of facilitating an efficient learning experience.  These role are grouped into two main sub sets based on software or app design:  SIS (Student Information System) and LMS (Learning Management System).  The quality of interaction within and between these two systems drives the learning process.

LMS-  The Learning Management System is first reviewed and structured by the LMS Administrators, who work to ensure a strong, yet flexible technical foundation to the system.  Next, Instructional Administration  determine what courses need to be taught based on both the demand from the students and the expectations set forth by local, state, and national agencies- often using information and data gathered via various needs assessments.  The LMS is then populated by the various Course Developers, who, in many cases, are also the instructors.  In time, the teachers are assigned to the courses and students are admitted to their classes while their parents or guardians, if applicable, are granted observational access- if appropriate.  

SIS-  The Student Information System is a powerful software tool that is adapted to each organization's particular needs.  In this part of the online learning environment, the Administrators function more like the administration at a brick and mortar school- by monitoring the learning environment and communicating with facilitators and teachers. the Facilitators in the SIS can be the same personnel as the Instructional Administrators in the LMS- as they perform similar functions by approving courses (and the pay for the courses), selecting and evaluating the personnel, and keeping an eye on the final grades and state assessment results. The Teachers work with the list of students they have been assigned and deliver the course materials in the most accessible way possible.  Teachers communicate regularly with students and are responsible for managing their final grades. 

Students  are who drive both LMS and SIS. Their needs to learn and society's need for educated professionals or skilled workers are balanced within the online learning environment through the skills and talents of the professionals who work within the digital structure.   It will be of great interest to see the development of online learning environments as students who grew up within them begin to take the leading roles within them!