Learning Management Systems offer an array of relevant tools that relate directly to effective online teaching.  Here is a list of tools that contribute to a successful online learning experience:

Announcements- Teachers can post upcoming deadlines and key information.

Blogs- Students and teachers can use this tool as a reflection by posting comments regarding a certain topic and replying to other students.

Journals- Students can write narratives about a specified topic.

Glossary- Provides definitions of terms used in the course which can be constantly updated by the teacher.

E-mail- Allows communication for students and teachers to exchange digital information.

Course Home- Widgets that organize the content of the course.

Class list/Calendar/Bulletin Board- Students and teacher can identify students enrolled in the class list/Teacher can communicate deadlines with calendar and the announcements on the bulletin board.  

Course Content – Import/Export allows easy movement of course content into and out of the different classes.

Course Authoring- Can be built in or external such as Blackboard’s threaded voice board.

IM and Discussion Boards- Allows for students to collaborate and interact synchronously  and asynchronously

Course Packages- Sharable Content Object Reference Model (Scorm) is an example of a standard course package and allows you to create any type of learning content.

Course Assessments- Quizzes/tests/rubrics/dropbox are ways to organize assessments and assignments that the students submit.

Grades/Gradebook- Location where students can check grades that the gradebook automatically calculates once teacher enters them. Students can keep up to date with their grades by accessing the grades tool in order to not be surprised at the end of the course. 

LOR- Learning Object Repository- Website that stores instructional digital resources or learning objects which teachers can upload for instructional use.  I was most impressed with MERLOT.  I registered and searched for some excellent resources for teaching world languages.  The videos consist of native speakers teaching basics such as numbers or telling time.  These videos provide culturally authentic resources that definitely enrich second language learning.

E-Portfolio- Tool used for organizing and showcasing relevant coursework, reflections and a resume.