Utilizing Learning Management System (LMS) Tools to Foster Innovative Teaching

Many post-secondary institutions utilize learning management systems (LMSs) to deliver online, blended, and face-to-face courses. LMSs have a wide variety of built-in functionality that can be used to facilitate innovative teaching. This chapter provides useful information, critical thinking questions, and insights that instructors can use to expand their adoption, knowledge, and usage of LMS tools to build upon innovative teaching practices. Three instructional approaches are discussed: case-based learning (CBL), scenario-based learning (SBL), and gamified learning. Additionally, specific examples are provided to demonstrate how LMS tools can be used to support CBL, SBL, and gamified learning. This chapter invites instructors to critically reflect on how they use LMSs and other educational technologies to carry out ineffective instructional strategies. Furthermore, it provides concrete examples of how LMS tools can help instructors improve their teaching practice and adopt creative instructional approaches with thoughtful use of technology grounded in sound pedagogical practices.