Integrating learning management and social networking systems

Learning Management Systems (LMS) have become ubiquitous tools in support of both classroom and distance education programming. They bring significant advantages that digitize and automate many of the functions and pedagogical activities of traditional campus teaching. At the same time social networks have become ubiquitous tools for communication, entertainment and informal learning by both students and teachers. In this article we examine the characteristics, strengths and limitations of both toolsets and the ways in which innovative distance educators are attempting to merge the best qualities of each. We conclude with a case study of one such integration from Athabasca University in Canada.