英语论文网

as TWUMOO which was used in Texas Woman's University shown in Figure 2.(Tomek,1999) It contained some basic functions like resource sharing, online communication, help and e-mail etc. Seen from today's angle, the interface is quite simple but it is still revolutionary as it is a GUI(Graphic User Interface) as it existed in the era of Microsoft DOS. What is more, it is originally developed from a computer game. With the improvement of modern computer technology and operating system, new VLE systems became increasingly powerful than before. They had not only beautiful graphics but also more friendly interface and faster internet connection. In the year 2005,Blackboard accomplished the acquisition to WebCT, the other main VLE company in the world and became the leading role (almost monopoly, just like Microsoft in operating system) in the VLE market. Most of the universities in Europe and America are using Blackboard as their main VLE just like many people are using windows as their operating system.
Figure 2

Here are the main VLEs being used in the world now:

Similar Terminologies and Comparison
Besides VLE, there are also other similar terminologies. Those models are also different forms in the development of VLE.For example, LMS (Learning Management System), CMS(Course Management System), LCMS(Learning Content Management System) and MLE(Managed Learning Environment).
An LMS involves more in managing students' learning in all aspects, it is more like a managing system rather than a learning platform. The appearance of LMS used to cause misunderstanding to some education stakeholders as they thought it would manage the learning of the students directly. The content of LMS is more constructivist.Paulsen (2002) suggests that LMS is
"A broad term that is used for a wide range of systems that organize and provide access to online learning services for students,teachers,and administrators. These services usually include access control,provision of learning content,communication tools, and organizations of user groups." According to www.whatis.com, an LMS is describe as a role of "instructor" guiding students to study and acquire learning resource, meanwhile, supervising students in their studies. Seen from the definitions above, the key point of an LMS is in management whereas a VLE's is in learning. There are essential differences in a management system and a learning system as the purposes of these two systems are different even their main functions are more or less the same.
Comparing with a VLE, an LCMS is more like a data base that contains educational resource only rather than an interactive platform. Students can launch all kinds of learning materials in an LCMS, however, they might not interact or communicate in an LCMS. In other words, an LCMS is more like a logical constituent part of a comprehensive VLE system. A VLE is able to play the role of an LCMS.Contrarily, it is difficult for an LCMS to act like a VLE. In Cranfield University, "Harrison (2004) reports how they used the HarvestRoad CMS to act as their VLE, and that is overcomes some of the problems of conventional VLEs, most notably that of 'islands of content." LCMS can