Evaluation of Learning Management Systems A Comparative Study Between Blackboard and Brightspace

Abstract

This study examined through analysis and comparison two Learning Management Systems (LMS): Blackboard and Brightspace. The field research sample consisted of 513 students from Umm Al-Qura University. The study attempted to answer key questions related to the evaluation level of Umm Al-Qura University students for the features of these two LMS. The study concludes that most of the students agree with the advantages of Blackboard and Brightspace and that the most common advantages of these LMS are the following: help in accessing shared data and files, record and monitor the learner's performance, help in controlling and adjusting the educational process, facilitating the sharing of experiences and scientific concepts with others, the stable interface in controlling and moving between other components, facilitating the discussion with the teacher and with the students, and the easy to understand and learn interface. The study found that there is a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of students using the Blackboard system and students using the Brightspace system in the overall rating of the features of the e-learning system in favour of the students using the Brightspace system. This means that students using the Brightspace system are more sensitive to the benefits of an e-learning system than students using the Blackboard system. The findings can be used to help educators develop the best process for implementing open and distance learning. The appropriate techniques must be chosen to ensure that no student is left behind and that the teaching and learning process works with sustainability.