As the Learning Technology Coordinator for the MARSOC (Marine Forces Special Operations Command) Project at DLS, I monitor and develop the online learning platform through a learning management system (LMS). An LMS is a software application used for the administration, documentation, tracking, and reporting of electronic educational materials. Online courses are created within the LMS, and the federal government uses this new online tool for language development within multiple agencies.
Last month, Julie Millet, Holly Mueller, and I led a technology teacher training workshop on utilizing MARSOC’s chosen LMS, Brightspace by D2L. This was my first training, but I knew that my knowledge of the online learning platform and my previous teaching experience would allow me to lead an engaging and informative training.
I was excited when I arrived at Camp Pendleton as it was my first time on a military base. I met with the Site Director for Language Training and the three instructors who will be using our developed online curriculum. They were eager to learn about the LMS and its internal technology tools. I was given a quick tour of the language training facility, and then we sat down to discuss how the LMS could best suit the base’s needs. We tackled many issues and found multiple solutions related to using the site, including but not limited to accessing course content, quizzing, grading, and culture exercises. Julie and Holly did a great job with their presentation on explaining the ins and outs of the curriculum.
On my second day on base, I led the instructors through the training on utilizing and accessing the Brightspace LMS tools. We looked at how to access the course content, submit homework through the Dropbox tool, access the assessment, and use the grade book. Two of the instructors could grasp the functionality with relative ease and comprehension. The other instructor was also able to follow along while asking good, inquisitive questions. The mixture of experiences varied within the group. One of the instructors had used multiple LMS platforms in the past and was the most experienced in the group. The others had little experience using any online learning platform. Within three hours, all the instructors overcame the challenges of the LMS and felt comfortable utilizing the site with the training provided. Here at DLS, we strive to work with our clients to give them everything they need to produce efficient results. The overall result was a solid positive impression for our clients at Camp Pendleton.
