Stephen Downes

Some startling but timely reading from Blackboard as their research points to unsettling conclusions about their (and probably other) LMSs. For example (quoted):

• When students take a class online, they make a tacit agreement to a poorer experience which undermines their educational self worth.
• Students take more pride in the skills they develop to cope with an online class than what they learn from it.
• Online classes neglect the aspects of college that create a lasting perception of value.

The report (13 page PDF) says that these negative findings can be used "to craft positive changes for our products." I think that people working with the company would find it refreshing to work where these weaknesses are recognized and are being actively addressed.