The origins of Learning Management Systems (LMS’s) can be traced to the release of PLATO in the 1960’s evolving to the current state we see today.    Early iterations mirrored the didactic instructional models and had minimal impact on the traditional forms of pedagogy that originated from monastic traditions.  More recently we are seeing the evolution of next generation ecosystems comprised of innovative tools and media-rich content tailored to the unique needs of various learning organizations.  These next generation tools have evolved in response to the changing educational landscape and adoption of progressive practices that aspire to personalize learning. 

This transformation from monolithic learning platforms to a “stack” of integrated tools and resources has been enabled by the establishment of common standards that enable interoperability amongst solutions.  Learning organizations are increasingly relying on data to inform action.  The IMS Global (https://www.imsglobal.org/ ) organization has established foundational criteria for exchange of data, development and sharing of content, and standards for an evolving analytics ecosystem.  These standards enable educators to strategically select and assemble preferred components for their learning ecosystems and have a degree of confidence in their abilities to share data. Here is a brief video that will provide additional context on IMS Global’s influence in the K-12 Space (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Vng9vvMQQ4 )

The progressive practices that are beginning to permeate K-12 have all been enabled by the rapid evolution of systems as well as the availability of personal technology.  With robust learning ecosystems in place and an increasingly connected student population, organizations can leverage the power of learning analytics to tailor learning opportunities and meet learners where they are.  Learning is no longer confined to a physical space nor a block of time.

Another key characteristic is the availability of media-rich, engaging content.  Access opens up a whole new world of opportunity and democratizes content.  In traditional settings, teachers or textbooks are primary knowledge sources.  In these next-gen ecosystems curation and collaboration between and amongst learners is the norm.  Open Educational Resources (OER’s) AND the presence of IMS Global standards can enable an exchange, reuse and remix of curriculum and content.   K12 OER Collaborative is an organization leading efforts in collaboration with state-level leadership to curate and make available high-quality OER instructional resources that can be used as core curriculum.  Aligned to common core and built on interoperable standards these resources could be easily ingested into native learning ecosystems for reuse in local districts.  For those who are on Twitter they are great follow @K12OER.