First, you will need to understand what an LMS is. It is a software application that will enable the users to design, deliver as well as create their own courses and make them available for others to use. On the other hand, eLearning platforms are web-based applications that will allow people to create online courses and then share them with the learners. eLearning platforms are very similar to LMS because they both come with the option to create your own content. What is important to say is that both of these are essential for educators as well as the learners as you are able to create, organize, view as well as manage the whole process.
Examples Of eLearning And LMS Platforms
When it comes to LMS tools, one of the most used ones for educational purposes is the blackboard. It has been around all the way back since 1997 and that is why it has a vast variety of features that will help you manage, deliver as well as create course content. But on the other hand, you will have eLearning that uses Adobe Captivate that will allow you to create online courses from scratch without having to have any programming knowledge. It is a program that covers all five phases and it is just a great tool to have when it comes to eLearning.
The Key Differences
Even though they are fairly similar in their basic functions, the key difference between the two of these platforms is quite big.
- Functionality
LMS is more comprehensive because they offer file sharing, data storage, messaging as well as collaboration. But on the other hand, eLearning platforms are more focused on housing online courses. Tools like this will come with the basic support to adding and storing continents.
- Accessibility
eLearning platforms are generally hosted while LMS is either hosted or on-premises. That means that eLearning platforms are more flexible and there is a higher degree of scalability and you can access them from anywhere that has an internet connection. But on the other hand, LMS is usually accessed from the organization’s network.
- Set-Up
When it comes to LMS you will need some time to set it up and link it with other applications while eLearning platforms are already integrated into something. That is because LMS has a more complex setup procedure than eLearning ones.
- Pricing
Because LMSs come with a wide variety of integrations and they are very powerful, they cost a lot of money. On the other hand, you have eLearning platforms that are designed to have lighter content and they are more flexible which makes them really cheaper than LMS.
Which One To Choose?
Most people tend to go for eLearning platforms over LMS ones because they are easier to use and they just have a simpler and more attractive interface. You can also mix and match the content that you are going to be putting out, for example, uploading RTO training materials while still having videos, quizzes and graphics. On the other hand, you have the LMS that comes with a handful of built-in features that eLearning platforms do not have. If you are someone who needs evaluation as well as performance management, LMS is the way to go.
Can An eLearning Platform Be Used Without An LMS?
If you couldn’t tell, eLearning platforms are usually linked in some way with LMS, and that is because it is essential as eLearning platforms are just limited in functionality without the LMS. For example, if you don’t have an LMS you won’t be able to track learner progress. This is the primary reason why people choose to combine these two platforms. But if you are looking for just a learning platform, eLearning platforms are enough.
As you can see, there are some differences between the two of these, and they are almost two different things, but at the same time, they are linked. Depending on what you need and want you will either choose one or combine the who of them. For those who are looking for something more professional, LMS is the way to go, while if you were looking for a tool that will help you manage and create content eLearning is the way to go.