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OpenLearning VS Blackboard Learn

Compare OpenLearning VS Blackboard Learn and see what are their differences

OpenLearning logo OpenLearning

OpenLearning is a reputable and flexible social online learning and MOOC platform that leverages educational institutions to online design, deliver, create, and market courses and projects.

Blackboard Learn logo Blackboard Learn

Blackboard provides enterprise technology and innovative solutions that enhance teaching and learning methods
  • OpenLearning Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-06-30
  • Blackboard Learn Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-26

OpenLearning features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    OpenLearning provides an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for users with varying levels of technical expertise.
  • Community Engagement
    It encourages collaboration and interaction among students and educators, fostering a sense of community and enhancing the learning experience.
  • Customizable Learning Paths
    Course creators can easily design adaptive learning paths tailored to individual learner needs, enhancing personalization in education.
  • Interactive Content
    The platform supports multimedia and interactive content formats, such as videos, quizzes, and discussion boards, which can boost learner engagement.
  • Global Access
    Being an online platform, OpenLearning allows learners from around the world to access educational content anytime, anywhere.

Possible disadvantages of OpenLearning

  • Limited Advanced Features
    Compared to some competitors, OpenLearning might lack certain advanced features or integrations that more specialized platforms offer.
  • Cost for Educators
    While learners might access courses for free, educators and institutions may face subscription costs for hosting and designing courses on the platform.
  • Dependence on Internet Connectivity
    As with any online platform, stable internet connectivity is required, which might be a limitation in regions with poor internet infrastructure.
  • Scalability for Large Institutions
    There might be challenges in scaling the platform to suit very large educational institutions with extensive and diverse requirements.
  • Varied Course Quality
    As courses are created by diverse educators, the quality and comprehensiveness of courses can vary significantly, potentially affecting learning outcomes.

Blackboard Learn features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    Blackboard Learn features an intuitive interface that is easy to navigate, which minimizes the learning curve for new users.
  • Comprehensive Tools
    The platform offers a wide range of educational tools and resources including quizzes, assignments, discussion boards, and multimedia support, enhancing the overall learning experience.
  • Mobile Accessibility
    The Blackboard Learn mobile app allows students and instructors to access course materials and interact with the platform on the go.
  • Robust Communication
    Integrated tools for announcements, messaging, and discussion forums facilitate effective communication between students and instructors.
  • Customization
    Instructors can customize the course layout and content to better fit their teaching style and the needs of their students.

Possible disadvantages of Blackboard Learn

  • Cost
    Blackboard Learn can be expensive for institutions, which may be a barrier for smaller schools or those with limited budgets.
  • Complex Setup
    Setting up and configuring the platform can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring specialized IT support.
  • Performance Issues
    Users have reported occasional performance issues such as slow loading times and downtime, which can disrupt the learning experience.
  • Steep Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    While the basic interface is user-friendly, mastering the more advanced features can be challenging for some users.
  • Limited Integrations
    Although Blackboard Learn supports various integrations, it may not seamlessly integrate with all third-party applications that an institution uses.

Analysis of Blackboard Learn

Overall verdict

  • Blackboard Learn is generally considered a good option for educational institutions seeking a comprehensive and customizable LMS. However, some users may experience a learning curve due to its wide array of features, and others have reported that the interface can feel outdated compared to newer platforms. Overall, it remains a solid choice for those who need a reliable and scalable solution for managing educational content and facilitating online learning.

Why this product is good

  • Blackboard Learn, now part of Anthology, is a widely used Learning Management System (LMS) that offers robust tools for educators and students. It provides features such as content management, assessment tools, communication aids, and real-time feedback, which enhance the teaching and learning experience. The platform is also highly customizable, allowing institutions to tailor it to their specific needs. Furthermore, Blackboard Learn integrates with various third-party applications, offering flexibility and extending its functionality.

Recommended for

    Blackboard Learn is recommended for institutions and educators looking for a robust and flexible LMS solution. It suits universities and colleges that require extensive functionality and customizability, and it can also benefit corporate training environments. It is ideal for users who require a well-supported platform capable of managing large volumes of users and content.

OpenLearning videos

Online Learning Platform OpenLearning Attracting Interest: CEO

Blackboard Learn videos

Blackboard Learn Review: Hard to use software that is also very expensive!

More videos:

  • Review - Blackboard Learn Review: Blackboard Review
  • Review - Blackboard Learn Review: using blackboard makes my day worse

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to OpenLearning and Blackboard Learn)
LMS
8 8%
92% 92
Education
6 6%
94% 94
Online Learning
7 7%
93% 93
Online Courses
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare OpenLearning and Blackboard Learn

OpenLearning Reviews

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Blackboard Learn Reviews

10 Best Google Classroom Alternatives: Which Should You Choose?
If you want to opt for a tried and true Google Classroom alternative, Blackboard Learn is the way to go. This learning management system largely caters to higher education. Although, the company has been gearing its services toward business and government entities as well. Consequently, Blackboard has added a new LMS version called โ€œLearn Ultra.โ€ Whatโ€™s more, is that Learn...
Top 15 educational software to streamline the learning process
Blackboard Learn has course development and management capabilities, discussion forums, online assessments, grade tracking, and connected education spaces. Some of its upsides include supporting asynchronous learning for flexibility and accessibility, streamlining administrative processes, and enhancing the overall teaching and learning experience.
The 10 Best Moodle Alternatives & Competitors (Updated for 2024)
Blackboard Learn facilitates collaboration through features like announcements, instant messaging tools, and discussion boards. These help learners better communicate with instructors and collaborate with peers.
Source: www.docebo.com

What are some alternatives?

When comparing OpenLearning and Blackboard Learn, you can also consider the following products

Skilljar - LMS for Customer and Partner Training

Canvas LMS - Canvas is the trusted, open-source learning management system (LMS) that's revolutionizing the way we educate. Take Canvas for a test drive with our free, two-week trial account. Sign up now! Call 800-203-6755.

BrainCert - BrainCert's all-in-one educational platform gives you all the tools & expertise you need to learn, teach, and collaborate online - all in one place.

Talent LMS - A super-easy, cloud LMS to train your employees, partners, customers or students.

Teachery - Create and sell beautiful online courses in minutes.

Litmos LMS - Most User-Friendly Learning Management System (LMS) in the World