mZapp LMS is an open source based Learning Management System (LMS) that is very simple to implement and use. mZapp LMS has been built with the experience of creating a learning platform for students. mZapp LMS has many features expected from an e-learning platform, plus some original innovations. In contrast with the 'Top-Down' method of learning, mZapp LMS encourages an interactive and collaborative method that makes pedagogy all the more interesting. mZapp LMS can be used in many types of environments such as in education, training, development and business settings. mZapp LMS is modular by nature and its functionality can be extended by additions and modifications.
Some of its major features are:
- Promotes a collaborative approach to the learning cycle
- Suitable for 100% online classes as well as complementing the regular direct method
- Simple to use, lightweight, efficient, compatible,low-tech browser interface
- Easy to install on almost any platform that supports PHP. Requires only one database (and can share it)
- Full database abstaraction supports almost all variants of publishing RDBMS
- Fully searchable
The core of mZapp LMS consists of cutting edge components drawn from the open source world and hence keeps the cost at a very optimal level.
The system can be configured and managed by an admin user. All the parameters can be defined during set up and also can be modified later. Interfaces are provided to customize the font, layout, styles to suit ones taste. It can also be customized to any language thus allowing the learning system administrators a flexibility in the medium of instruction. The whole bundle has been developed on Apache, Mysql, Php (AMP) stack.
mZapp LMS is built with flexible options for the enrolment as well as the authentication process. It can work in tandem with a number of globally tried and tested standards. It can work with the standard email method where the student can register himself with a set of unique credentials. These addresses are then cross checked by way of sending confirmation emails. It can also work with LDAP or IMAP, POP3 where a mail server can be used for quick authentication.
Course Management Overview: The core of the system consists of a number of small modules that enhance the Activity By Learning (ABL) method. These modules are very functional in nature but very light weight so as to avoid over-loading. Apart from what has been listed custom modules can also be developed based on a specific requirement.
Some important modules along with the notable features of each are given against each below:
- Assignment module
- Assignments can be specified with a deadline and a maximum scale of evaluation
- Learner's can upload their work in any format to the server
- Chat module
- Learner's can interact with one another in text mode
- Learner's can send URLs, embed HTML, images etc
- Glossary Module
- Learner's can contribute to the content by adding to the Glossary which can then be evaluated by the teacher
- Learner's entries can be previewed by instructors before publishing
- Glossary items can be grouped in categories
- These items can also be searched
- Test module
- Instructors can define a set of questions where they can add these questions to a course quiz
- Questions can be imported or exported in many file formats
- Learner's entries can be previewed by instructors before publishing
- Questions can be structured with HTML formatting, images
Other modules that are available are listed below for a quick reference
- Resource Module
- Survey Module
- Peer Assessment Module
- Lesson Module
As an e-learning service provider Mindzen has a unique process driven approach to creating content that can be deployed on any standards based learning system. Please refer to below figure for a sample of our work. Our initial needs assessment identifies the objectives of the e-Learning program, course, materials and who will be using it. We also think of details like channel of delivery, technology.
At Mindzen developing an e-Learning project is done by building a relationship with the instruction team that wants to develop the content. We also ensure a faster delivery time at lower cost due to an innovative and iterative interview, story boarding and rapid prototyping approach.
Mindzen is is uniquely positioned to deliver innovative training products based on our deep technical knowledge base, well entrenched process and extensive development experience.
Our business model is based on creating a long term relationship with our clients by:
- Understanding our clients training needs
- Developing training materials in a flexible and responsive manner
- Providing high quality training materials on time and at highly competitive prices
- Understanding and implementing the best of breed e-Learning standards
What sets us apart is the way we put things together
Mindzen can integrate Flash, Video, 2d/3D animations with textual content seamlessly so as to make e-learning a truly enjoyable experience.