An approach to designing and developing an LMS framework appropriate for young pupils

Abstract

The lifestyle of the new people generation, called in the scientific literature Generation Z, is closely related to the Internet, computer and information technology. Therefore, people and children belonging to this group can be viewed in terms of software technology as specific users who have high requirements regarding the functions and interface of the software applications, connectivity to social networks and instant communication via the Internet. This influenced not only on the teaching and learning methods but also on the software applications used in the learning process. In recent years, new theoretical teaching methods have emerged, and the number of electronic learning systems increased. However, students lack motivation for the learning process. This requires developing new conceptual models of training and learning software, tailored to the skills and preferences of the end-users. The young students up to 12 years of age: from kindergartens to preschools and primary schools are special users who have not been studied exhaustively. In order to present the problem related to the development of learning and training software thoroughly, the most commonly used standards and current trends, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of LMS platforms have been reviewed. Attention is drawn to the commonly used software design and development technologies. This is the reason to propose a strategy for developing a web-based e-learning management system according to the possibilities of young pupils as a specific user. Having in mind this strategy we described a software architecture, based on SCORM's specification, and we developed an LMS prototype. Its design was tailored to the skills of young children. The basic methodology used in the design and creation of the system we propose is user-centered design. The document is intended for developers, educators and scientists, studying child-computer interaction.