Developing a research supportive web-based learning System

Abstract

While it is widely recognised that learning management systems should support course delivery and student administration, it is less often acknowledged that they are in a unique position to support research into web-based learning. LMS can capture significant amounts of information about how students use the system, access online activities, and interact with other students. We report on how we customised and extended a widely used open-source content management system, in order to serve as a research-supportive learning management system. The platform is currently used by over 400 students and simultaneously serves as the basis for research projects on web-based teaching and learning.