Joomla out of the box is not at all designed to handle anything other that content. However, usign various available extensions you can create some very dynamic and very extensive learning websites from a Joomla installation.

We'll give you some examples and practical tips on what we have found in the JoomlaSphere.

There are various tools in the Education category of the Joomla Extension Directory that you can use to extend your Joomla! website into an LCMS (Learning Content Management System).

However, there are other things to consider when looking into extending your website for learning.

1. are you delivering online training, tests, grades, etc?

2. Is your training supplemented with live classroom training?

3. Does your site need the ability for team colaborations?

With so many Joomla extensions available these days your elearning limits are endless.

Integrating or separating tools?

Tools used to support e-learning cover a wide range of different applications. They include discussion forums, chat, file sharing, video conferences, shared whiteboards, e-portfolios, weblogs and wikis. Such tools can be used to support different activities involved in the learning process. The question of organizing e-learning tools involves the problem of integration vs. separation. On the one hand, it is possible to integrate different tools in a single stand-alone system, a learning management system, also called virtual learning environments or e-learning systems (such systems include Blackboard, WebCT, Moodle). On the other hand, tools can be separated in a number of distributed and independent applications used for different purposes.

One approach to e-learning is the use of LMS. All LMS are not alike, and they can be used in different ways. However, a common idea behind LMS is that e-learning is organized and managed within an integrated system. Different tools are integrated in a single system which offers all necessary tools to run and manage an e-learning course. All learning activities and materials in a course are organized and managed by and within the system. LMS typically offer discussion forums, file sharing, management of assignments, lesson plans, syllabus, chat, etc.

 Bottom line is this, you need to assess what your needs are and what you are wanting to deliver, track, analyze, and collect from your students from within your Joomla website. Then and only then will you be able to know what tools you need to extend your Joomla website so that you can transform your webiste into a true LCMS powerhouse.

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