Sparking Inter-usability: How Can Instructors Align Learning Management Systems within Online Learning Ecosystems?

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, global higher education institutions turned to learning management systems (LMS) such as Canvas for emergency online teaching. However, existing studies have focused on the usability of individual LMS applications rather than their inter-usability with other technologies. This study, therefore, examines the inter-usability of Canvas from the perspective of faculty who used it alongside other technologies to cope with the pandemic. Results show that issues of continuity, consistency, and composition limited the inter-usability of Canvas when supporting the transition from in-person to online instruction. Based on these findings, the study identifies specific design implications that can improve the inter-usability of Canvas and other LMS by aligning them within the ecosystem of applications and devices demanded by contemporary in-person and online education during periods of stability and crisis.