Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

Fuzzy based approach for adaptivity evaluation of web based open source Learning Management Systems

  • Published:
Cluster Computing Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Adaptive Learning Management System is a concept that has been recently explored to meet the individual needs of learners. Research studies regarding learning environments’, adaptation and personalization indicate that they play a key role to inspire, motivate and engage learners. The Learning Management Systems (LMSs) in this regard are currently facing the challenge of adapting the entire learning procedure according to the individual learning needs. Presently, there are numerous open source, custom developed, and commercial LMSs available. This paper presents an evaluation of web based open source LMSs since they can be easily supplemented and integrated with other software solutions than commercial and custom developed systems. The aim of this evaluation is to find a LMS platform that is most appropriate and has the potential for augmenting to an adaptive one. Initially, the evaluation is based on Elimination by Aspects approach for the qualification and selection of LMSs. Afterwards, the selected nine LMSs were evaluated using Linear Weighted approach (LWA) and fuzzy logic approach. The LWA was applied by assigning performance ratings to the overall categorical as well as adaptivity features. Finally the fuzzy logic was applied to the assigned ratings of each feature for the fuzzification of crisp set values. The results indicate that Moodle outperforms other platforms in overall functionally as well as in adaptation category.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5

Similar content being viewed by others

Notes

  1. http://www.qsos.org/?page_id=3.

References

  1. Albarrak, I. A., Aboalsamh, A. H., Abouzahra, M.: Evaluating learning management systems for University medical education. In: International Conference on Education and Management Technology, pp. 672 – 677. (2010)

  2. Anderson, E.: Choice models for the evaluation and selection of software packages. J. Manag. Inf. Syst. 6(4), 123–138 (1990)

    Article  MathSciNet  Google Scholar 

  3. Begam, F.M., Ganapathy, G.: Adaptive learning management system using semantic web technologies. Int. J. Soft Comput. 4(1), 1–8 (2013)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  4. Chang, Y.H., Chen, Y.Y., Chen, N.S., Fang, R.J.: Yet another adaptive learning management system based on Felder and Silverman’s learning styles and Mashup. Eurasia J. Math. Sci. Technol. Educ. 12(5), 1273–1285 (2016)

    Google Scholar 

  5. Colace, F., De Santo, M., Pietrosanto, A.: Evaluation models for e-learning platform: an AHP approach. In: 36th ASEE/IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference, pp. 1–6. (2006)

  6. Cavus, N.: The evaluation of Learning Management Systems using an artificial intelligence fuzzy logic algorithm. Adv. Eng. Softw. J. 41, 248–254 (2010)

    Article  MATH  Google Scholar 

  7. de Lera, E., Valverde, L., Almirall, M., Santanach, F., Aracil, X., Madoz., E. L.: Myuoc, the new open source platform that provides as many learning environments as users. In: 13th UNESCO-APEID International Conference on Education and World Bank-KERIS High Level Seminar on ICT in Education, People’s Republic of China (2009)

  8. Fertalj, K., Jerković, H., Hlupić, N.: Comparison of e-learning management systems. In: Proceedings of the 5th WSEAS International Conference on E-ACTIVITIES, Venice, Italy, November 20–22, pp. 189–194. (2006)

  9. Felder, R.: Learning and teaching styles. J. Eng. Educ. 78(7), 674–681 (1988)

  10. Graf, S., Viola, R. S., Kinshuk.: Automatic student modelling for detecting learning style preferences in Learning Management Systems. In: Proceedings of the International Conference on Cognition and Exploratory Learning in Digital Age (CELDA), pp. 172–179. Algarve, Portugal (2007)

  11. Graf, S., List, B.: An evaluation of open source e-learning platforms stressing adaptation issues. In: Proceedings of the International Conference on Advanced Learning Technologies, pp. 163–165. (2005)

  12. Hart, J.: Learning management systems [Blog post]. http://c4lpt.co.uk/directory-of-learning-performance-tools/instructional-tools-course-learning-management-systems/. Accessed 16 May 2017

  13. Lucia, D.A., Francese, R., Passero, I., Tortora, G.: Development and evaluation of a virtual campus on Second Life: the case of SecondDMI. J. Comput. Educ. 52(1), 220–233 (2009)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  14. Markéta, D., Kateřina, K.: Complex model of e-learning evaluation focusing on adaptive instruction. In: Cyprus International Conference on Educational Research (CY-ICER) North Cyprus, pp. 1068–1076. (2012)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  15. Nezhad, S.S., Etaati, L., Makui, A.: A fuzzy ANP model for evaluating e-learning platform. In: International Conference on Industrial, Engineering and Other Applications of Applied Intelligent Systems (IEA/AIE), pp. 254–263. (2010)

  16. Pacurar, E.G., Trigano, P., Alupoaie, S.: Knowledge base for automatic generation of online ims ld compliant course structures. Educ. Technol Soc. 9(1), 158–175 (2006)

    Google Scholar 

  17. Pop, C.: Evaluation of e-learning platforms: a case study. Inf. Econ. 16(1), 155–167 (2012)

    Google Scholar 

  18. Popescu, E., Trigano, P., Badica, C.: Evaluation of a learning management system for adaptivity purposes. In: Proceedings of the International Multi-Conference on Computing in the Global Information Technology (ICCGI’07), pp. 9.1–9.6. (2007)

  19. Ross, T.J.: Fuzzy Logic with Engineering Applications. McGraw-Hill Inc., New York (1995)

    MATH  Google Scholar 

  20. Radwan, M.N., Senousy, B.M., Riad, M.E.A.: A new expert system for learning management systems evaluation based on neutrosophic sets. Expert Syst. J. Knowl. Eng. 33(6), 548–558 (2016)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  21. Surjono, D.H.: The evaluation of a moodle based adaptive e-learning system. Int. J. Inf. Educ. Technol. 4(1), 89–92 (2014)

    Google Scholar 

  22. Tzeng, G.H., Chiang, C.H., Li, C.W.: Evaluating intertwined effects in e-learning programs: a novel hybrid CDM model based on factor analysis and DEMATE. J. Expert Syst. Appl. 32, 1028–1044 (2007)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  23. Vandewaetere, M., Vandercruyss, S., Clarebout, G.: Learner’s perceptions and illusions of adaptivity in computer based learning environments. Educ. Technol. Res. Dev. 60(2), 307–324 (2012)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  24. Wang, Y.-S.: Assessment of learner satisfaction with asynchronous electronic learning systems. J. Inf. Manag. 41, 75–86 (2003)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  25. Zadeh, L.A.: Fuzzy sets. Inf. Control 8, 338–353 (1965)

    Article  MATH  Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Attock, Pakistan

    Farman Ali Khan & Faisal Shahzad

  2. COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Wah, Pakistan

    Muhammad Altaf

Authors
  1. Farman Ali Khan
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Faisal Shahzad
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Muhammad Altaf
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Farman Ali Khan.

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Khan, F.A., Shahzad, F. & Altaf, M. Fuzzy based approach for adaptivity evaluation of web based open source Learning Management Systems. Cluster Comput 22 (Suppl 3), 7099–7109 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10586-017-1036-8

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Revised:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10586-017-1036-8

Keywords

Search

Navigation