Actual Usage of Learning Management System to Support Blended Learning

This study aimed to investigate the actual usage of the moodle open source learning management system (LMS) among students enrolled in self learning skills course (GR101) as one of the introductory courses for first year college students at the university. The (LMS) was adopted by the university recently as a tool for completing courses on line to enhance the technology integration as an innovation towards blended learning in teacher education programs as well as other colleges in the university. The LMS moodle is currently used by many instructors at the university to deliver on line materials to supplement traditional face -to -face teaching, and to increase learning opportunities in coordinated network enhanced classrooms. Since little research has been done in the area that focuses on a specific software package such as moodle open source learning management system, this study came to describe aspects of the online technology provided by the moodle and explore the level of engagement of students in the system. Using a survey design the study revealed that students are actively involved in using the moodle in several aspects of their learning activities such as home work submitting and revising, online testing, discussion boards, chat, messages and e-mails which make the moodle an appropriate and efficient tool to support the vision of blended learning at the university. Key words:Blended learning, learning management system, moodle.