May 29th, 2009 by Robin Green

When I was growing up, educational concepts like eLearning, virtual classrooms, learning management systems (LMSs), and Web 2.0 integration simply did not exist. We had computer class once a week, and then in our tweens AOL instant messaging  was just becoming all the rage.

Technology for educational use wasn’t quite there yet for most of us 80s babies. For example, the option of making a video for class project was always a touchy subject for some of us (like myself.)

I dreaded group projects in elementary, high school and middle school. If your group happened to include a student whose family owned a camcorder, you had it made. If not, there were always boring posters and other visuals you could make…but these weren’t quite as exciting.

Somehow, my group never included one of those hip students with no problems accessing video equipment. Though most middle-class families must have owned camcorders by then, mine did not, and it was always with a mix of gratitude (for sparing us another insufferable poster presentation), enjoyment and envy that I watched the video projects put together by my more high-tech, creative, and, well, usually generally better-off classmates.

Of course, in the fifteen or so years since then, a lot has changed. Video sharing sites and cheap video camera tools allow anyone to become producers of their own movies. And easy-to-use educational tools like LMSs and eLearning software allow educators and course developers to easily create videos to share with students, and resources to share with other educators.

For example, Coggno’s LMS and course creation toolkit offer an easy-to-use video tool with some interesting features for educators and course developers. Its simple format allows video creation with just a few clicks, making it accessible for both educators and students.

Creating and incorporating videos using an LMS can transform lessons, activities and even entire courses. And other robust tools in Coggno’s LMS toolkit offer a check-and-balance system. Learning content featured in videos can be checked for understanding using other course tools like quiz and assessment tools.

And for educators who are looking for a video-sharing website, but are wary of incorporating outside Web 2.0 technologies like YouTube into their classrooms, there are educational video-sharing sites such as TeacherTube.

TeacherTube, created in 2007 by a Texan superintendent, is one example of how Web 2.0 is creeping creatively into our LMS-based and online learning systems.

More and more teachers are using TeacherTube as an aid for lesson plans and a place to post student projects. TeacherTube now has over 50,000 videos posted, and also features activities and competitions for schools such as classroom makeover contests.

A video is an effective tool for prompting LMS students to interpret and analyze instructional material. And why not allow students themselves to create video projects, whether it’s for an online or traditional course?

Studies find that when students are allowed to take a piece of knowledge and create something with it, their understanding of the topic is much more thorough than if they were to simply take in the material.

Moreover, these days camera equipment is less expensive and more accessible to the general public. Using an LMS, students are able to upload their own videos to share their interpretation and creative expression of the learning material with other learners as well as their instructors.

Students can engage in an exciting and collaborative learning activity using LMS video creation tools and/or sites like TeacherTube. Tools provided by LMS systems like Coggno allow students and educators to develop creative and collaborative learning content within a controlled and safe setting. LMSs like Coggno offer a user-friendly video tool for creating engaging instructional videos.

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Coggno.com offers premier e-learning courses.

May 27th, 2009 by Robin Green

There are a number of misconceptions surrounding the purpose and function of learning management systems (LMS) and the related area of eLearning. It is perhaps an erroneous first step to look at these two areas as being distinctly separate. While it is true that each of the concepts that are presented here do have distinct definitions, they nevertheless form an integral partnership with one another, a virtual (no pun intended, but applicable) symbiotic relationship. Let’s take a look at how each of these concepts is defined in order to better understand the dynamic relationship they share with one another.

A LMS is a software package that an organization (be it business or educational) can utilize to provide instructional material and resources to personnel/students. Typically, an organization will integrate a LMS into their existing computer systems, or it can be a stand alone package. Whatever the case, a LMS is a tool that is used to offer training, educational courses, evaluation mechanisms and a whole host of other benefits. Usually, these resources can be accessed from computers that are provided on location and/or online.

Electronic learning or eLearning (also known as technology support learning [TSL]) is a means of instruction that is facilitated by technological means. In other words, it’s an educational experience that uses computers and other technology to provide training, classes, testing and other needed functions. Classes provided online, with either a virtual instructor or done remotely, is an example of eLearning.

At this point, a clear picture should be developing on the synergy that exists between a LMS and eLearning. In short, a LMS is the means and structure by which one facilitates eLearning. In an educational environment, for example, a LMS can integrate teaching and learning functions to enhance the overall use of resources, as well as the dissemination and absorption of information.

This is accomplished by the development and management of classes, information accessibility, student accomplishment analysis, progress tracking, and even the delivery and presentation of classes. With a LMS, eLearning is not limited to a single location. An educational organization can provide its offerings to a wide range of students in diverse locations as a result of online capabilities of a LMS.

There is little mystery, as one can see, about these concepts. LMS’s and eLearning allow effective and wide-reaching instructional offerings. It is within this understanding that Coggno, a software developer has stepped forward. This company that specializes in LMS’s, has offered to provide public schools free eLearning tools with its software. This move in the midst of educational budget cuts only serves to highlight the practicality and resource efficiency that these concepts provide. Coggno, for its part, is providing a much needed service to the public.

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Coggno.com provides world-class online training.

May 27th, 2009 by Robin Green

Every organization realizes a need for both resource efficiency and training/information dissemination. Indeed, much time, energy, and budget allocations are directed to these functions. With a learning management system (LMS) delivering an organizations eLearning requirements, many training/educational delivery problems find quick resolution.

For the uninitiated, a LMS is a software package that enables an organization to deliver educational/training materials to those who need it. This can be done either on location, utilizing computers and other technological means, or online from remote locations. eLearning is simply the concept of utilizing technology to teach or receive instructional material.

Ok, this sounds great, but why should you care? The reason is simple and it goes to the point that we started this article off with: “Every organization realizes a need for both resource efficiency and training/information dissemination.” This is what an LMS and eLearning can do. An educational organization, for example, has the need to instruct students in the most effective manner possible. This entails not only classroom instruction, but also testing, evaluation, class management and more.

An LMS can perform all of these functions in an efficient manner. Consider these benefits of utilizing an LMS for eLearning:

• Schools will be able to instruct a greater number of students
• Students progress will be able to tracked efficiently
• Faculty and teachers can be easily accessed
• Information is easily accessible and disseminated
• Students experience more time and convenience in learning endeavors
• Enhanced opportunity to complete courses

These are only a small sampling of the benefits that are enjoyed by utilizing an LMS.

What should be noted is that these are all benefits that educational entities seek on a general basis but are often unable to attain because of budget constraints or manpower that such moves would require. A LMS is a practical, and more importantly, budget friendly means of accomplishing the progressive goals that educational organizations rightfully endeavor toward. There is little question, in the final analysis, of the benefits that eLearning and a LMS can provide an organization.

Indeed, one such organization that develops software that delivers online training tools is taking the initiative that illustrate this very point. Coggno is providing public schools that accept its offer, with free LMS software to provide them with eLearning capabilities. As more and more states slash educational budgets, their ability to adequately serve students is hampered. Coggno understands that these problems can alleviated by implementing eLearning solutions. By offering LMS tools to public schools, Coggno is not only providing a public service, but also showcasing the ability of these concepts.

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Coggno.com provides high-quality LMS platforms.

May 26th, 2009 by Robin Green

I’ve written before that during strenuous economic times, many people choose (wisely) to upgrade their skills and expertise through LMS online courses.

Supply Knowledge (SK) is one online system that may suit your needs. SK provides sourcing, procurement and supply management professionals with relevant and recent information and tools.

SK’s tools and programs are practical, easy to find, and designed by practitioners.

On Supply Knowledge’s website there is a quote from Barack Obama on February 24: “I ask every American to commit to at least one year or more of higher education or career training. This can be community college or a four-year school, vocational training or an apprenticeship. But whatever the training may be, every American will need to get more than a high school diploma.”

With this call to higher education in mind, Supply Knowledge sets out to provide certification programs and LMS online courses at a low price. The courses are self-paced and self-directed, providing flexibility and convenience to learners with busy schedules.

SK offers dynamic and up-to-date programs in Strategic Sourcing Management, as well as the CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) Exam Preparation using ISM’s training material.

Now SK’s online CPSM Bridge Exam Preparation is available through Coggno’s marketplace. If you are a procurement professional who already holds CPM credentials, the course will help you prepare to take an exam to become a Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM).

The certification course was developed by instructors who graduated from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), and uses ISM-approved material.

The course includes an introductory section with information about the certification exam, and tips and hints for succeeding on the exam. Following this is a section for each of the three exam modules.

SK is one LMS online provider that understands a simple concept: that transferring knowledge from the short-term memory to long-term is a process easily facilitated.

One of the most effective ways to help your brain absorb course material is repetitive review. Think of it this way: though you may park your car in hundreds of places throughout your lifetime, you probably remember easily enough where it is each time you leave it. And you just as easily forget where it was parked after you no longer need to find it there.

However, if one day you parked your car in a random place in the parking lot, and then walked by it few times throughout the day, you might remember for days or even weeks where it was on that particular day.

This is a simple strategy for putting course content into your long term memory. When you learn something new, try to review the main points on the same day. Take notes on the LMS online material and keep them accessible.

Supply Knowledge is a prime example of an LMS course provider that practices repetitive review. Throughout the course the learner is asked to complete many quizzes and case studies to test his or her knowledge. Each module ends with a quiz which helps students remember all the material included in that section, and upon completing the course there is a final quiz to prompt further practice and preparation for the CPSM exam.

Another course offered by SK and available on Coggno’s website is Market Research for Sourcing and Procurement. The course teaches learners how to conduct market research, “to identify qualified (or qualifiable) suppliers or contractors that can meet your organization’s requirements.”

The course a thorough yet concise overview about the ins and outs of market research, in a robust and effective online format. Enter Coggno’s marketplace and  discover LMS online courses for polishing your professional skills today.

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Coggno.com offers world-class online training courses.

May 22nd, 2009 by Robin Green

Are you seeking effective, flexible and creative tools for your LMS online training or eLearning course? Coggno’s feature-rich course creation toolkit just became even more versatile.

This week Coggno teamed up with Rapid Intake Unison, online software that allows course creators to build Flash-based eLearning courses.

Rapid Intake Unison allows course developers and subject matter experts to capture, storyboard, develop, review, test, and publish Flash-based learning content.

But Rapid Intake Unison makes it exceedingly simple–users don’t actually need to know Flash. All a user has to do is fill out form-based templates to create interactive Flash-based courses, tests, quizzes, learning games, demos and simulations.

Advanced users and groups can create reusable custom templates using the Flash source code (.fla). And like Coggno’s LMS and course creation toolkit, all output is SCORM compliant, rich-media compatible, and runs on most browsers including Internet Explorer, Firefox and Safari.

Rapid’s tools combined with the Coggno delivery platform allow eLearning developers to create richer courses with easy distribution and reporting.

Coggno’s new Applications Exchance partnership reflects the growing understanding in the eLearning industry that the parts combined are greater than one alone; joining forces provides the best solution. Working together works.

The App Exchange model of partnering and vending of software solutions not only facilitates better performance, but brings together the collective power of combined software skills and know-how–a model that Coggno believes is the future.

Coggno’s LMS toolkit, which includes a text editor, SCORM Publisher, question banking, video, quiz and assessment tools, enables organizations to provide rich, multi-media online training at a low cost. Additionally, Coggno’s LMS follows a pay per use model, and requires no up front costs to create and deploy training.

All eLearning content created with Rapid Intake Unison can be used and distributed “royalty-free”. The software is integrated seamlessly with Coggno’s SCORM learning management system, and was ranked #1 in the eLearning Guild Market Research Survey.

Rapid Intake Unison allows all subject matter experts, designers, and reviewers to work collaboratively on eLearning content through a secure web interface that provides easy-to-use tools.

Coggno’s features combined with the robust applications integrated with Coggno’s LMS, such as BB FlashBack screen recordings and Rapid Intake Unison, provide a powerful course development toolkit packed with increasingly versatile options.

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Coggno.com provides premier e-learning education.

May 19th, 2009 by Robin Green

Many software providers like learning management system vendors and eLearning platforms understand that difficult times call for inspired measures.

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s proposed budget cuts in education programs this week came as a heavy blow to the public school system–and, as a consequence, our country’s youth.

“The two budget proposals the Governor released today offer a choice between devastating and horrific cuts to public schools,” said state superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell last week in response to the release of Governor Schwarzenegger’s May Revision.

Of course, it’s not a phenomenon unique to California. States across the country are announcing stark budget cuts for public schools. Today, the New York City Education Department announced a $405 million cut–an average of 4.9% per school. Tomorrow, principals will receive the actual amounts.

High school seniors across the country are faced with tough choices. The annual Princeton Review survey gave a sobering report on the mental state of soon-to-be college students.

According to the survey, which polled over 15,000 students and parents, over two-thirds of high school seniors have experienced high levels of stress over college admissions this year, and claim the economic downturn has directly influenced where they applied. Thirty-eight percent applied to colleges with lower tuition than they would have otherwise. And nearly nine out of ten respondents said financial aid will be essential to their attending.

With budget constraints looming over school districts across the country, eLearning courses and online collaborative technology provide a cost-effective enrichment to school curricula. Despite the challenges that schools face in terms of obtaining such technology, with some creativity and basic knowledge of eLearning tools, educators are being given an opportunity to try new educational methods.

President Obama’s goal–announced way back in February–targeted that by 2020, the U.S. will have the highest proportion of college graduates in the world. In order to get to that point, some creative thinking-out-of-the-box will be required.

Schools will need to think about ways to obtain the learning material and technology they need to keep America in the game.  And software providers will also need to think outside the box.

That’s why Coggno is now providing free LMS service to public schools. Coggno has responded to the need for cost-effective eLearning tools in every U.S. classroom.

Across the country, a pedagogical shift is taking place from information-dispensing, to the facilitation of projects and activities that help students develop 21st century skills. Learning management systems are often deployed to organize activities that ask students to gather information and work collaboratively.

In order to enter into a service-oriented, entrepreneurial, global workplace, students are being called upon to develop critical thinking, technological, communication, and analytical skills. Many school systems have tried and found learning management systems and online collaboration tools key to encouraging and developing such skills.

LMSs are also an effective way to keep costs down and students enrolled. Coggno allows public educators educators to easily create, update and distribute courses to students–absolutely free.

Coggno’s video and text tools, SCORM publisher, question bank and template, quiz and assessment tools make eLearning courses customizable and flexible. Coggno also provides straightforward and useful functionality to help teachers, and an easy-to-navigate interface to make the LMS easily integrated into any school.

Combined with face-to-face instruction, learning management systems like Coggno help to enrich student experience and develop the IT skills they will need to succeed in an increasingly competitive job market. Coggno understands that when the tough gets going, the going get organized, collaborative and creative.

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Coggno.com offers high-quality online training.

May 15th, 2009 by Robin Green

With more training and education being hosted on learning management systems, and more technology introduced into classrooms, the education world is going green. Classrooms once littered with paper are cleaning up and cutting down on waste; training programs once dependent on lots of materials and hardware are slimming down. Technology and Web 2.0 are changing the face of learning, and among the many benefits of smart classrooms is the reduction of toxic waste.

Using a lightweight and robust learning management system (LMS) like Coggno, course creation, distribution and deployment is all provided online, offering users an efficient and paperless elearning experience.

Coggno’s LMS tools such as text, audio, assessment, quiz, video, and Apple podcast producer create a virtual classroom with minimal dependence on extra hardware and equipment.

In the electronics industry, everyone is thinking smaller and more lightweight. Slim and miniscule models are trendy and designed for looks and profits, but are also part of a larger and nobler shift. One could say the new aesthetic is part of a growing anti-waste revolution in the tech world.

Along with the increased use of internet-based programs and software, the need for the latest computer model or other hardware is no longer quite as pressing–all the tools learners needs to access an online course are right there on the web. Practically any PC or laptop will do, with minimal required hardware.

Hosting training courses on Coggno’s learning management system helps minimize the amount of waste that comes out of an organization. Training doesn’t have to be a consumptive or complicated enterprise. With its paperless courses and simple user interface, Coggno’s learning management system offers organizations a chance to cut down not only on costs, but on the extra material that was once required for training programs.

With Coggno’s video tools and integration with BB FlashBack’s Screen Recording feature, traditional training methods that involved video tapes or DVDs for demos are no longer necessary.

Organizations investing in Web 2.0 learning tools and online training are part of a global movement of collaborative education. But organizations using online learning systems are also responding to a global call for greener policies and practices.

Unfortunately, the ramifications of an e-wasteful society typically fall on the shoulders of developing nations. Take Bolivia, for example. Pillaged for centuries for its precious metals, it is now found to be cursed with another coveted raw material: lithium. Lithium carbonate is used in laptop and cell phone batteries.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The EPA estimates that the industry recycles 60 million electronics products a year, most of which contain toxic materials and are exported to developing countries.

In 2008 alone, Hong Kong intercepted and returned 41 ship containers that had come from U.S. ports. The ship containers carried tons of illegal electronics waste from the U.S.. By intercepting the ships and sending them back, Hong Kong prevented attempts by American companies to dump 1.4 million pounds of broken TVs or computer monitors overseas and an estimated 82,000 pounds of lead, a known toxin, in the items.

On the brighter side, the Web 2.0 movement is seeing hints of green. For example, many pulp and paper companies are finding it harder to stay alive, partly due to the increase in emailing, internet reading materials, online courseware, etc. On the other hand, though the world is less dependent on paper for reading materials, paper is still being produced to be used for purposes like product packaging.

Coggno’s learning management system helps organizations help the world, with its robust and paperless learning system. Using tools like the text, assessment, word bank and quiz functions, traditional assessment methods involving large amounts of paper are no longer necessary.

And linked to Coggno’s eco-friendliness is another benefit–the convenient and lightweight system that its LMS provides trainers and students. Learning management systems like Coggno continue to contribute to a new global system that rejects the destructive cycle of e-waste that has historically dominated the electronics industry.

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Coggno.com provides high-quality online training.

May 12th, 2009 by Robin Green

When developing ways to support and motivate learners in an LMS online course, think incentives and clarity.

First, incentives. Think about it: Why did the chicken cross the road? It certainly wasn’t just to get to the other side. No, there was probably something across the road that the chicken wanted, and in order to get it, he had to traverse some pavement. Organizations using LMS online systems might keep this concept in mind.

Despite the fact that the endeavor or process itself typically turns out to be the reward, we humans still need a carrot in order to put forth effort. Intentional learning–or learning for the sake of learning–isn’t a common occurrence. Most people are not intentional learners.

At its core, learning is about wanting something. In the classroom setting, that something may be good grades. In a company LMS online system, the desired objective may include rewards for good performance, or simple verbal encouragement and acclaim.

Adults and children alike are highly responsive to simple words of encouragement. Along with a user-friendly and comprehensive training program with its own system of rewards and points, employees benefit greatly from human motivation. A figure of leadership who inspires and motivates trainees not only aids the learning process, but instills a sense of team unity and improves work relationships.

When a company’s employees are self-confident and motivated, and maintain healthy workplace relationships, the organization always benefits.  A good leader understands the emotional intelligence factor of his team.

As business author Michael LeBoeuf has said, “You get more of the behavior you reward. You don’t get what you hope for, ask for, wish for or beg for. You get what you reward.” When individual team members are poorly motivated, or feel like their work doesn’t make a difference, the whole team suffers. By rewarding group accomplishments, you inspire and promote teamwork and creative energy.

Give each member a sense of responsibility; let them know that their actions make a difference. Though an LMS can be used to track achievements to provide rewards as part of a reward and recognition strategy, the best kind of recognition is face-to-face, in the form of positive words and encouragement from a respected figure.

In supporting and motivating learners in an LMS online course or team setting, clarity may be just as important as incentives.

First, communicate standard processes–technical and “soft” team processes. Specifically, the laying out of team processes is a important condition for team success. Not only can an LMS online system be used to provide information and guidance, but it can serve as a platform where team members can communicate with each other to plan, suggest, ask questions, etc.

When everyone knows what to expect, and what’s expected from them, a world of problems are avoided. Of course, learners/team members may generate their own ideas for collaboration, but these can be added later. When a course or team project is just starting out, consistency and coherence are paramount.

Second, clarity can mean a little extra training, to make sure everyone is armed and on the same level with necessary skills. An organization should possess the necessary resources, including accessible and efficient communication technologies, as well as a little technical training. Technical training can be administered via an LMS online program or in a traditional, face-to-face training workshop.

Remember that for many of your employees, a virtual classroom or team may be a completely new concept. Many people may have no prior experience in LMS online collaboration–or even much experience in a traditional, face-to-face team. Building an environment of trust and group reliance is therefore essential. Establish trust by setting simple, clear goals for each member, and letting each experience the satisfaction of having completed the task and played their part in the group.

An LMS can aid tremendously with the establishment of goals and clear objectives for a team learning experience. In addition, an LMS can help with the maintenance of a robust reward and recognition system. But at the end of the day, a strong, communicative leader with a kind word of encouragement will trump any available LMS online tool.

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Coggno.com provides world-class LMS platforms.