A Learning Management System Enhanced with Internet of Things Applications

Abstract

A breakthrough in the development of online learning occurred with the utilization of Learning Management Systems (LMS) as a tool for creating, distributing, tracking, and managing various types of educational and training material. Since the appearance of the first LMS, major technological enhancements transformed this tool into a powerful application for managing curriculum, providing rich-content courseware, assessment and evaluation, and dynamic collaboration. With several current research fields targeting various technologies related to the LMS, the future promises many changes in its structure, operations, and implementation. The most important technology that is expected to transform many future aspects is the Internet of Things (IoT). In this paper, we provide a framework for a future LMS enhanced by IoT capabilities. We outline several elements of the LMS that will be affected by IoT, and the expected enhancements and changes that IoT will bring to the LMS functionalities. The framework presented for the IoT-enhanced LMS constitutes the main component of a three year research project that is being conducted at the Arts, Sciences, and Technology University (AUL). In this paper, we illustrate the main parts of this project and the implementation plan of each part, including the prospected outcomes and benefits.