Orienting for Success: An Online Learning Management System Orientation
Students in online classes must navigate complex learning management systems (LMS). Some lack the technical skills needed to effectively utilize LMS tools, which contributes to low technological self-efficacy. Blinn College’s 10-module orientation addresses topics essential for efficiently navigating the college’s LMS. More than 50,000 students and many faculty members have benefited from the LMS orientation. From its inception, the course has engaged front-line employees from across the college in development, design, and maintenance. Student surveys provide a student voice for improvements. Outcomes data indicate significant improvement in student performance for orientation completers, regardless of course modality; the course is especially effective in equalizing opportunities for economically disadvantaged students. Data show that students achieve technological efficacy and self-efficacy as a result of the orientation, which continues to bridge the digital divide and affords Blinn College students both the skills and confidence to succeed.
Innovators
- Amanda Chau, Professor, Biology
- Lillian Marshall, Functional Analyst, Administrative Computing Services
- Tom McClung, eLearning Support Specialist, Distance Learning
- Mathew Walpert, eCampus Systems Specialist, Distance Learning