Flipping The LMS

 

Benefits and Lessons Learned from Using an Alternative
Front-end to the Canvas LMS

 

EDUCATOR AND EXPERIENCE DESIGN CONSULTANT

Paul D Hibbitts

@hibbittsdesign

hibbittsdesign.org

What is a Flipped LMS?

 

“A flipped-LMS is where an open platform, in the control of instructors and students, is an alternative front-end to
the institutional LMS.”

 

Why “Flip” the LMS?

To (now, not later):

  • support pedagogical goals unmet by current LMS/platform
  • increase capability of access, sharing and collaboration
  • deliver a better student (and facilitator) experience

Experience Design Goals

  • For Students

    • Engaging

    • Organized

    • Relevant

    • Convenient

    • Enjoyable

  • For Facilitator(s)

    • Controllable (i.e. manageable)

    • Pliable (i.e. flexible)

    • Efficient

    • Enjoyable (hey, instructors are people too...)

Example Flipped-LMS Toolset

  • Grav (Open source, multi-device, modular, no-database CMS)

  • Atom Text Editor

  • GitHub/GitLab Account + Repository and GitHub Desktop App

  • Deploy Account (GitHub/GitLab auto-deployment to FTP server)

  • Canvas LMS (well, no surprise there...)

How long would that
update take?

~ 30 Seconds
(your mileage may vary)

What About Needed Skills?

  • Basic User Skills, Level I (working with existing theme)

    • Text file editing

    • Markdown or simple HTML formatting

    • Uploading files (i.e. via FTP)

  • Basic User Skills, Level II (supports the workflow shown for facilitators and as a bonus supports student collaboration!)

    • GitHub account

    • GitHub Desktop app

    • GitHub to FTP server service (i.e. Deploy)

Live Demo

 

Thank you! Questions?

 

Traditional vs. Flipped LMS

Traditional LMS Usage Flipped-LMS Approach
Institutional Control Instructor & Student Control
Closed Open
Fixed Pliable
Solitary Collaborative
Stationary Portable