Streamlining Learning Management Systems

How inconsistent use of online platforms is hindering communication—and what schools can do to fix it

In 2024, it's safe to say that nearly every school uses an online learning management system (LMS). Platforms like Schoology, Google Classroom, Canvas, Blackboard, and Moodle are common, but widespread use means a host of competitors offer similar services.

These learning management systems have the potential to be incredibly useful. Theoretically, they should allow teachers to communicate with students and families, provide easy access to classroom materials, and streamline assignment submission. Unfortunately, usually, they're not used consistently across classrooms, and they cause more confusion than clarity.

One of the clearest ways this confusion surfaces is in how homework assignments are organized. Many teachers do a great job of posting homework online, which is fantastic. Students and parents can log in, view a calendar or task list, and see exactly what assignments are due and when. But not all teachers follow the same approach. Some bury assignments in the middle of class information feeds, making them harder to find. Some fail to post homework assignments until it’s late the night before the assignment is due. And others don’t post assignments at all, falsely assuming that kids are also keeping paper planners. 

This inconsistency is incredibly frustrating. At best, it leads to redundancy: Why should teachers expect students to keep a paper planner if most of their to-do list is posted online? At worst, it causes serious headaches. Inconsistent processes mean more chances for miscommunication between students, parents, and teachers, and crucial information easily slips through the cracks. Teachers need to post assignments in one central location on the LMS by the end of the school day, and if they don’t, students should not be held responsible if they fail to do those assignments.

Another example is assignment submission. Most LMS platforms have features for turning in assignments or marking them as completed, which could prevent misplaced papers and misunderstandings. For instance, if a student believes they turned in their homework, but the teacher didn’t receive it, having an electronic record could help resolve the issue quickly. Unfortunately, many teachers don’t take full advantage of these features, leading to more confusion about expectations and deadlines. Assignment submission should be clearly tracked on the LMS so everyone is on the same page about what’s missing and what’s not.

Schools are already investing considerable resources in these learning management systems, so they might as well prioritize streamlining their use. Clear, consistent policies would maximize utility and reduce confusion, making the most of the tools already available.

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True story: This is what I showed Eleanor when she asked to see a “video of jail.”