Blackboard, Desire2Learn, and Moodle

Blackboard is an online course management program which aides educators in classroom instruction.

Features of the Blackboard include:

• Ease of use
• Customizable Learning Environment
• Collaboration and Communication tools such as online discussions, chat, and virtual classrooms
• Access to information anytime - anywhere
• Access to Grades and Personal Information as well as grade management
• Links to a virtual content space
• Easy access to Library Resources
• Webspace for course materials
• Tests and Quizzes
• Digital assignment submissions for students
• Group collaboration within courses

However, despite Blackboard being the forerunner in classroom technology the cost is extremely expensive. Diversly, Desire2Learn is much less expensive than Blackboard, and has many of the same features, such as an eLearning Suite which provides group collaboration tools and course management tools.

The product also offers:

• D2L Learning Environment: web-based suit tools of teaching and learning tools for course development, delivery, and management
• D2L Eportfolio:intuitive platform for collecting, organizing, reflecting, and presenting learning artifacts
• D2L Learning Repository: enables organizations to effectively manage and share content across institutions, programs, courses, and sections
• D2L Live Room: real-time communication tools
• D2L Essentials: similar to D2L Learning Environment, but for the smaller eLearning programs and institutions
• D2L 2Go: mobile learning application, accessible from the blackberry
• D2L Competences: intergrates with other accessment tools

Although Desire2Learn's cost is much cheaper than Blackboard, the system works as such: the more students you buy for the less the cost. So if you have a smaller school system you many decide you want to go with a third alternative, Moodle. Moodle is a free web based software package for producing Internet based courses and websites. It is designed for collaboration, activities, and critical reflection and can be used to help organize assignments. Their are different roles for teachers and students and the software can be manipulated for the needs of the school or classroom using it.

Some of the features include:

• Polls and chat
• Modules for lessons, quizzes, forums, resources, surveys, wiki, and workshops

One of the downsides to using Moodle, however, is the low tech support which the company offers. Despite this fact I believe I will likely use Moodle as I desire to work in low-income school systems which will most likely be unable to pay for programs like Blackboard and Desire2Learn.