What are examples of an LMS?

Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle and D2L Brightspace are widely used. Institutions choose one, and some courses use custom platforms.

What can I do in an LMS?

View the syllabus and course materials, submit assignments, take quizzes, join discussions, check grades, message instructors and see announcements and deadlines.

What if I cannot access my LMS?

Check your login and internet connection, try another browser, then contact the IT help desk and tell your instructor as soon as possible.

What Is a Learning Management System (LMS)? Explained

A learning management system, or LMS, is software that colleges and schools use to deliver and manage courses online. It is the digital hub for a course, where instructors post materials and assignments and students submit work, take quizzes, join discussions and check grades. Most institutions use an LMS for fully online, hybrid and in-person courses.

Common systems

Widely used platforms include Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle and D2L Brightspace, and some institutions use other or custom systems. Features and layout differ, though the core functions are similar.

What an LMS typically offers

Course pages: syllabus, schedule, readings, slides and recordings.
Assignments: instructions, deadlines and submission portals.
Quizzes and exams, often timed and sometimes proctored.
Gradebook: scores, feedback and progress.
Discussion boards and groups.
Announcements and messaging.
Calendar and to-do lists.
Integrations with video conferencing, plagiarism checkers, e-textbooks and library tools.
Mobile apps for notifications.

Tips for using it well

Explore the course page on day one, and find the syllabus and calendar.
Turn on notifications for announcements and deadlines, but manage the volume.
Copy deadlines to your own calendar.
Check the gradebook regularly to spot problems early.
Keep copies of submitted work and confirmation emails.
Test technology such as video tools before important sessions.
Submit early to leave time for technical issues.
Read feedback attached to assignments.

Accessibility and support

Institutions are expected to provide accessible LMS content. Ask for accommodations if you cannot use a feature, and contact disability services. Help desks and tutorials can guide you.

Privacy

Your activity may be tracked by the LMS and visible to instructors, such as logins and quiz attempts. Be aware of what is shared, and use institutional accounts for coursework.

Single sign-on

Many institutions let you log in to the LMS through single sign-on, using one set of credentials for several systems.

Why it matters

A good habit of checking your LMS prevents missed deadlines and misunderstandings, especially in online courses. Instructors often post updates there, and they expect students to read them.

Related terms

See single sign-on, cookies, syllabus, take-home exam and cohort.