2012

The main online technology that is currently utilized in Web-based instruction is the learning management system. This is a system in which information is generated and stored by a developer (usually the instructor) and shared with students via access to a secure online platform. Some common platforms available for such learning management systems are Desire2learn.com, Moodle, and Blackboard (Learn/9.1; Beatty & Ulasewicz, 2006). Blackboard now includes what was formally known as WebCT and Angel. In this manuscript, we will focus specifically on the widely-used Blackboard platform (Beatty & Ulasewicz, 2006), specifically Blackboard Learn, as this system typifies both the common strengths and limitations of Web-based instructional technology.