![]() The second type of platform is those that must be downloaded (saved) and hosted on the user's own server. This means that the user just signs up and uses the platform, but the platform "lives" on a server somewhere in cyberspace. First, there are those hosted on a public site. There are two types of free platforms for online learning. Most are also inarguably more adaptable than commercially available platforms. In addition to being free, these platforms are also top quality, and one could argue that some of them are, in fact, better than Blackboard and WebCT. Fortunately, there are a number of free platforms available for online courses. However, they are far too pricey for small schools, companies, and individuals who wish to host online courses. These platforms are used by major colleges and universities, as well as community colleges around the country. The most commonly used online class platforms in the United States are Blackboard and WebCT. A platform for online courses may also be called an LMS (Learning Management System) or LCMS (Learning Content Management System). ![]() The classes taught on these platforms are accessible via the Internet, and are usually private, meaning that only individuals who are registered for the class can see the password-protected website. Thus, the "platform" is essentially a place that looks like a private website and is intended to work like an electronic classroom. Files such as word processing documents, sound files, pictures, and videos can be uploaded to the virtual classroom for viewing by students. Classes take place online through the use of software packages that have special classroom features such as discussion forums, calendars, "chat rooms" where participants can communicate in real time with each other, and quiz and polling capabilities. Online courses are moving into the mainstream and, as with all technology-driven teaching tools, the software commonly used to deliver online courses can be prohibitively expensive. Even experienced translators should review the new documentation for a description of the upgraded translation system.A Review of Free Online Learning Management Systems (LMS) Introduction Be sure to reread the ATutor Translator Documentation, and the Language Manager section of the ATutor HowTo 1.4.3 course. ![]() Translators should now complete the new language added since the previous release of ATutor in preparation for the final release of ATutor 1.4.3 in the coming weeks. Partial language packs can be downloaded and imported into an ATutor installation, and translation sites can be setup so others can login and contribute. To encourage broader distribution of translation effort, language can now be translated on any local ATutor installation, or through the atutor.ca translation site as before. *Easy Enrollment*: Enroll in courses from the within the course browserĭemo of ATutor 1.4.3RC1 (Development Demo) *System Announcements*: Email admin announcements to students and/or instructors *Embed ACollab*: Display ACollab groups within ATutor *Improved Feedback and Error Handling*: New object oriented messaging system *RSS Feeds*: Syndicate course announcements for display on remote sites *Theme Manager*: Copy, import and export ATutor themes *Test Manager Upgrades*: Image based questions, group tests, question alignment options *Question Database*: Store questions in a repository and add them to tests or surveys *Backup Manager*: Create multiple backups, master copies, upload/download backups *Language Overhaul*: Translate on your own ATutor system, UTF-8 support *Enrollment Manager Overhaul*: Groups, roles, privileges, alumni access to courses *File Manager Upgrades*: Create and edit files, batch move & delete, popup file manager *Forum Upgrades*: Shared & community forums, forum & thread subscription See the ATutor Change Log for a more detailed description of new features. Post issues to the ATutor Bug Reports Forum listed below if you find a bug or want to suggest changes. This release candidate is intended primarily to generate feedback from current users, to try to resolve as many issues as possible before the final release in the coming weeks. The first release candidate for ATutor 1.4.3 is now available for download and testing. “ATutor is a Learning Content Management System designed with accessibility and adaptability in mind.”
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