It was interesting to read and learn about Course Management Systems/ Learning Management Systems.  An interesting point that was mentioned in Lisa’s article was the fact that instructors and professors are not considered novice when teaching their area of expertise, yet when it comes to pedagogy integrating technology another tune plays.  I as well consider myself as a “novice faculty” when it comes to online teaching.  Through out this course I have been learning and experimenting with different programs and learning systems that can be integrated into the online “classroom”.  Another important point was how far away do we expand our knowledge or are we willing to experiment.  As noted by another participant, I would definitely like to begin with whatever learning systems our own school recommends or requires.  I am already comfortable using Blackboard as it has been a system every school I’ve worked in requires and/ or uses.  However, I am more than willing to, little by little, experiment and integrate new (or at least new to me) LMS.

On the other hand, how will students approach or be introduced to these ever-evolving systems? An important element mentioned in Chapter 10 (Ko & Rossen, 2010) was the creation of student orientation.  Getting students familiar with programs and providing an outline of expectations, requirements (both class requirements and required computer skills-to be acquired), etc… (Ko & Rossen, 2010).  Also setting the initial tone for the class is crucial to establish the class environment as indicated by Ko and Rossen.  So many great points to consider and implement.