Pilot Study for New Learning Management System

This message was shared with faculty and staff on July 16, 2024.

Dear Colleagues,

Drexel University’s contract for our learning management system (LMS), Blackboard Learn, is ending soon, concurrent with Blackboard Learn’s transition to Blackboard Ultra. This provides an opportunity for Drexel to conduct a formal evaluation between two leading Learning Management Systems — Blackboard Ultra and Canvas — to determine which will be best suited to support our students, faculty, and the academic transition work that lay ahead.

Given the significant and far-reaching nature of this decision, we have charged a University Advisory Committee on Selection of a Learning Management System (UAC LMS) with evaluating and recommending a LMS that enhances the learning experience for students, supports faculty in delivering high-quality education, and provides effective administrative capabilities to best meet the needs across Drexel University. The full membership of the UAC LMS is listed on the Provost’s Office website.

Led by Johanna Inman, inaugural director of the Teaching and Learning Center, and Dana Kemery, associate clinical professor of undergraduate nursing and chair of the Faculty Senate Committee on Academic Support, the UAC LMS will direct a pilot study of the available options during the Fall 2024 and Winter 2025 quarters, with the expectation of submitting its recommendation of a new LMS in the spring. We are seeking faculty participation in the pilot study to teach courses using either Blackboard Ultra or Canvas in the fall 2024 and/or winter 2025 quarters. With support from the Teaching and Learning Center and the Instructional Technology Group, this will be a unique opportunity to positively impact the University and its academic experience.

If you are interested in participating, please fill out this short survey by Friday, July 26.

We thank you in advance for your interest and participation in this important initiative and look forward to updating the University community on the outcomes of this work.

Sincerely,

Paul E. Jensen
Executive Vice President
Nina Henderson Provost

Kevin Owens
Chair, Faculty Senate
Associate Professor