Explore: Identify the major tool categories in Learning Management Systems.
Answer in your blog: What are the most relevant features offered within an LMS? Which features directly relate to effective online instruction? How might you use these features in the online classroom environment?
The features that I find that are most relevant in the LMS are commenting and feedback, rubrics, and weights/percentages. As a fine art teacher, it is important to provide comments and feedback on the student’s work, so they can make necessary adjustments to turn in a better-finished project. The project should reflect the objectives that were taught. Students should be able to provide comments and feedback on their own work, so I can understand the direction they are taking their work in beyond a mood board, and thumbnail sketches. I use rubrics for grading all of my projects. This provides students and parents an understanding of what I’m looking for and what the results will be if they show that in their work. It makes grading faster and less subjective if there is a rubric to use on their projects. The last feature is the weights and percentages. I’m terrible at calculating the weights and percentages and it is great having an LMS that does that for you. That way students get an accurate grade for the efforts. These features are very helpful when you can not see your students in person.
Mrs. Miller - Messy Art Teacher Blog 