16 Commonly Used LMS Terms For eLearning Professionals
There are many acronyms, phrases, and terms used in eLearning. In fact, the terminology may be intimidating for beginners. Especially when it’s time to purchase your first Learning Management System and you’re faced with a myriad of unfamiliar lingo. Wouldn’t it be great if there was a simple and straightforward vocab cheat sheet? Well, you’re in luck. Here is a list of commonly used LMS terms eLearning pros should be familiar with.
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- Reporting
Learning Management Systems have reporting and analytics features to track learner performance and progress, as well as the overall effectiveness of your online training strategy. Some LMSs even offer customizable reporting capabilities so that you’re able to monitor specific online training areas that align with your learning objectives and outcomes. - Learning Record Store
The LRS allows you to store your data, or “statements”, in one centralized location. The LMS then accesses and returns the data to the store to keep track of learners’ performance. For example, monitor a learner's achievements or the badges they’ve earned. Many LMS platforms now feature integrated record stores. - Certification Management
This LMS feature usually applies to skill-based online training or compliance initiatives. Corporate learners complete the necessary online training courses or modules to earn certificates. The LMS keeps track of which certificates they’ve earned, as well as how they fared during the final proficiency exams. - Responsive Design
Many Learning Management Systems now offer responsive design features, which deploy multiplatform-friendly online training content. You create specific breakpoints based on the users’ preferred devices. Then the system automatically displays the suitable version of the online training course. Some tools even feature built-in previewers so that you can evaluate and revise each breakpoint. - Data Encryption
LMS platforms have data security measures in place to prevent hacks and keep your information safe. This also enables you to set specific security clearances for different types of audience. For example, only certain collaborators can access online training materials that contain more sensitive data. - eCommerce support
If you plan on selling your eLearning content, you should look for an LMS that provides eCommerce support. This covers everything from sales tracking to integrated payment gateways. Certain LMS solutions also have an online marketplace where you can promote your eLearning product. - SCORM (Shareable Content Object Reference Model)
This is a collection of standards for authoring content. By adhering to these standards, eLearning content can migrate between compatible LMS platforms. The Learning Management System will typically state that it is “SCORM compliant”, which means that you can integrate any and all data that adheres to this standard. - Tin Can API:
Advanced SCORM standards that allow the training team to track learning outside of the LMS environment, such as conference attendance or social learning activities. It also gives you the ability to track eLearning data in a variety of ways and simplifies the recording process. - Cloud-Based LMS
An LMS hosted in the cloud. Cloud LMS is also called SaaS, or on-demand LMS. It’s accessible anytime, anywhere, which makes it ideal for remote teams. - Multi-Language Support
Gives you the ability to develop and deploy eLearning content that appeals to a broader audience. The system displays online training content in many different languages the users may choose from. When geolocation features are also supported, the system automatically detects the learner’s location and may display content in the local language. For example, the user dashboard appears in Chinese for online learners based in China, which makes eLearning localization more cost-effective. - Offline Learning
Online learners can view the content offline and then resync with the system once they have an internet connection. Their activity performance, test results, and all other relevant data is uploaded to the system. Thus, online learners get credit where credit is due, even when they don’t have a reliable wi-fi connection. Certain LMS platforms also support downloadable eLearning content. - Self-Enrollment
Online learners are able to enroll in eLearning courses that cater to their needs without a lengthy signup process. This feature is particularly useful when you want to give access to a large number of people, and manual enrollment would be extremely time-consuming. - Skills Tracking
Ideally suited for corporate eLearning programs wherein organizations must monitor skill development among their workforce. This enables them to identify gaps and emerging talent, such as staff members who continually outperform their peers in simulations and branching scenarios. - Test-Building
Assessment engine that gives you the power to evaluate learner comprehension through qualitative and quantitative assessments. Some even feature question templates and pre-made eLearning assessments to save you time and ensure consistency. You can also set test time limits and provide immediate feedback. - Built-In Authoring Tool
This built-in software enables the user to write online training content and incorporate various types of media to create an interactive eLearning course without having to purchase a third-party authoring tool. This allows you to create and deploy online training materials without having to use third-party software. - Gamification Features
The use of game mechanics applied to non-game content that stimulates the online learner to solve problems. It can be as simple as a virtual badge of accomplishment or a point-based reward system. Many LMS solutions feature gamification tools that allow you to incentivize your eLearning course. For instance, you’re able to use eLearning templates to create eye-catching badges, then allow online learners to collect them as they progress through the online training module.
This list covers the 16 most commonly used LMS terms. However, once you have mastered this LMS jargon, you may want to continue adding to the list. Make a point to learn a new LMS term every week to gradually expand your professional dictionary.
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