Part A: LMS Setup
Using Haiku, a Learning Management System (LMS) was set up for a typical grade 12 biology class.
Haiku allows educators to set up online learning systems much like eClass.
A comprehensive syllabus, calendar, assignments and even attendance can be tracked using this program.
To the right is a snapshot of my homepage for a bio 30 classroom. Click the image to go directly to the page or visit
Part B: LMS Reflection
Learning Management Systems or LMS is a digital tool used to augment, support, or even replace the traditional face-to-face classroom learning by providing students with an online method to access and submit content.
Although it is unlikely to ever fully replace the traditional classroom setting, LMS provides an incredible array of tools and functions for educators to simplify their learning objectives. Haiku, for example, is an online program designed to easily create and share lessons, update class information, grade/ submit assignments, take attendance, and a wide array of other features.
I opted for a Haiku class designed around the context of a high school biology class (specifically Bio 30). The first page students see upon visiting the site is a syllabus of the class content. The first 10 lessons are shown as well as a comprehensive grading breakdown. This is a logical starting point for any LMS as the syllabus is generally the most helpful to the most wide array of students. Students will periodically be inclined to check the syllabus as it is mentioned that the syllabus will be updated throughout the course of the class.
Below the syllabus link on the home page is the Assignments link which, in my opinion, is the second most pertinent information to students visiting the page. It explains briefly of the total number of assignments due and a calendar below shows the dates for each assignment that is due.
Having the Syllabus and Assignments easily accessibly is a key factor in creating an effective LMS that students can intuitively navigate without too much confusion.
Next is a comprehensive calendar that shows the dates of all assignments, labs, quizzes, and exams. This is necessary as the small calendar below the Assignments page is insufficient to display every pertinent date. Also, a larger calendar gives students a more holistic view of their schedules.
Finally, there are the Connect and Assess pages. The Connect page allows students to see any updates or notices about the class. The Assess page is the location where students will submit their work and their grades will be given.
Ultimately, LMS enhances the face-to-face learning in the classroom by granting students 24/7 access to the class information while simultaneously easing the load for teachers in distributing content to their students individually.