Important Links
LMS Evaluation
Purpose
The purpose of this site is to provide our institutional community with a transparent evaluation process. This site will offer information related to the evaluation and implementation developments of the Learning Management System.
What is an LMS?
A learning management system (LMS) is a cloud-based application that allows teachers and students to access their online and hybrid courses from anywhere at any time. The main purpose of using an LMS is to provide a virtual learning environment where learners can interact with each other and their instructors, access course materials, complete assessments, and track progress toward their educational goals. Our current LMS is Blackboard Learn.
Why are we Evaluating?
Our contract with our current LMS, Blackboard Learn, expires at the end of this summer. A new version of Blackboard Learn, Blackboard Ultra, is now available. As Blackboard Learn Ultra requires a similar effort to learn and transition as a new LMS, our institution saw this as an opportunity to review our LMS needs and get your feedback about which one will best support student success and faculty’s teaching goals. Two Learning Management Systems have been included in this evaluation process, Blackboard Learn Ultra and Canvas by Instructure.
Evaluation Team
This effort is being led by COLTT, part of Student Success, and coordinated through a diverse evaluation team comprising UTRGV Administration, Faculty, Staff, and students within the institution. Each college has a faculty representative that has taught online for several years. A complete list of the evaluation team can be viewed on the Evaluation Team page.
Selection Criteria
The evaluation criteria was created by COLTT, revised and finalized by UTRGV Evaluation Team. Criteria established are based on current LMS needs and existing criteria for LMS evaluation.
Like to Participate?
Please attend presentations and hands-on activities for both Learning Management Systems at both the Brownsville and Edinburg campuses–February 21-23. This is an opportunity for you to provide your feedback on each LMS. To see a detailed list of locations and dates, please visit LMS Demonstrations page.
