The most common connotation when it comes to learning management system is that it is an important part of online education or blended programs of learning. This could be a viable perspective from a management’s point of view but not quite the same for e-learning.
LMS is much like Blackboard, Desire2Learn and WebCT which all offer content sequencing and structure management for educational institution personnel. Success is now basically measured by the number of page views that students make and the number of enrollment on the learning management system. This is not to say, though, that this system is no longer needed for learning. What needs to be curtailed is the LMS vendors’ agenda of making the system the central part of interactive learning. This makes the educators and students slaves to the said system.
There are certain aspects of learning that can be subjected to degradation when LMS is not properly used. Such aspects as performance support from educators, informal learning and knowledge management can be hampered. It’s simple—no single tool can do it all without affecting the overall functions of learning.
Some of the major down side of learning management system are:
Lessened real interaction with the educators
Confusion with the interface for some learners
Limited learning options
If only content is the most important part of learning, then this system is the perfect tool there is. But since learning is more than this single aspect, LMS should not encompass general learning. It should just be a contributory part to the learning process.