Course management systems: Time for users to get what they need

Course management systems (CMSs) are software systems designed to manage course content and course activities. These tools integrate technological and pedagogical features into a web-based system that allows instructors, even those who are unfamiliar with web-based technologies, to design, deliver, and manage an online course. However, CMSs have introduced so much new functionality so fast that end users have not had a chance to seriously reflect on what they need or want. In this article, the authors review some literature to identify common weakness across CMSs. The authors then recommend technological accommodations that should make learning with these tools more efficient and enjoyable.