Graduate Student's Opinions on Learning Management Systems: the Moodle LMS – a Case Study of EMU

Abstract

Over the years, e-learning is gradually integrated with the traditional classroom learning style and more ways to improve on this is being produced. Amongst which is being majorly today is the learning management system (LMS). One significant problem is that students do not effectively use the functionalities which are available by this learning management systems or may rather concentrate on some particular component of the LMS, for some various reasons which this research aims to identify. The aim of this study is to investigate Computer and Instructional Technology Teacher Education (CITE) graduate students' views and opinions related to LMS using Moodle. The research was carried out in the CITE department faculty of education, Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Northern Cyprus. This research is a case study with mixed method approach. 30 master students participated, both close ended questionnaire and a focus group interview was conducted. The data analyzed revealed that students check Moodle regularly for updates on course contents, announcements, discussion. Moodle enhances learning and also students are generally satisfied with Moodle as a way to manage their learning process, thus more effort needs to be made on the instructors in engaging all the components of the Moodle system for effective learning and usage.