Teaching & Learning Tips

A collection of tips and tools designed to aid in transitioning instruction online.

What is a Learning Management System?

Aug 05, 2021

students with laptops wearing masks

A learning management system, or LMS, is a software application that provides access to course resources like a syllabus, gradebook, discussion boards, due dates, and more. You are likely familiar with learning management systems from other previous educational experiences. Here at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, we are in a period of transition, with three different LMSs operating on campus: Compass 2g. (or Blackboard Learn), Moodle, and Canvas. In June of 2022, Compass 2g will be retired from use on campus and Canvas will become the primary LMS. 

Resources for UIUC LMSs

Student guide to using Canvas
Student guide to using Compass2g
Student guide to using Moodle

LMS Infographic

This transition period can be confusing given the presence of three different places to access your course sites over the next year. However, the list below will hopefully be a quick and easy guide for you to find your course, dependent on the College in which your course is being taught. Please note, the list below is not a hard and set list—some courses may be housed in one of the other LMSs, could be waiting to transition from one LMS to another, or could have other arrangements. Your NetID will give you access all the campus-supported platforms. Contact your instructor if you are unsure which platform is being used for any of your courses.


Other Considerations

This knowledgebase article includes links to several other platforms.  Some College of Engineering courses use PrairieLearn. Faculty may also use Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Mediaspace, and many other online tools to enhance the interactivity within a course. All the information you need to access any required systems should be included within your course materials.