Transitioning from blackboard to Desire2Learn: A study of effects on faculty and students

This thesis addresses the current state of e-learning in higher education systems. Present issues, advantages, disadvantages and the practicality of implementing a learning management system within a postsecondary institution are discussed. The focus of this research paper is a descriptive case study of Kutztown University's transition from proprietary learning management system (LMS) Blackboard (BB) to Desire2Learn (D2L). Questionnaires were administered to faculty and students who received the first experience of D2L in a real class setting, which the university began to offer during the 1st summer session in 2010. Faculty interviews were conducted during the closing weeks of the 1st summer session. Faculty using D2L during SS1 in an 80--99% or 100% online class spent more time preparing for their courses. Half of faculty who chose not to use D2L during SS1 have been teaching for 22--30 years. Only 37% of students agreed or strongly agreed that they had enough time to learn D2L before the 1st summer session. The remaining 39% disagreed or strongly disagreed, and 20% were neutral. The faculty members who used the program to replace a face-to-face classroom were faced with more anxiety and issues than those using the program only as a supplement. Students need a small amount of time to learn how to use the new system, but need access to their courses sooner than one or two days.