Carrying out admission-related activities while ensuring the smooth operation of ongoing classes and other academic activities is essential. However, institutes encounter obstacles more often than whenever executing multiple functions simultaneously.
That is why incorporating assistive technological tools is the need of the hour. But isn’t it sufficient to employ a single piece of software? It depends on the individual institute. Nonetheless, most institutes would benefit from Student Information Systems and learning management system integration.
One of the significant reasons is that it serves to meet the needs of multifunctional institutions and improve overall efficiency. Thus, it is noteworthy to look into the synergistic approach.
1. Streamlines the Assessment Process
Assessments are a critical aspect of the academic system, but they involve several steps that take considerable time and effort. The initial step necessitates them to prepare exam questions, whereas the admin staff prepares the exam schedule.
The second step includes conducting the exams in real-time; whether it is online or offline, the aim is to ensure a smooth and hassle-free examination. The last step is the post-examination process, which is equally critical.
Individually assessing the answer sheets and grading them is time-consuming and repetitive. However, institutes can automate the assessment procedure with the help of Student Information Systems and LMS integration in the following ways:
- They can facilitate online tests conveniently by creating different kinds of questions.
- Administrating the traditional pen-and-paper tests becomes easier as the staff can complete the pre-examination for formalities digitally. Therefore, it reduces time and increases efficiency.
- The tools also help to streamline the evaluation process through the auto-grading process.
- Teachers can store the exam questions on the cloud server, which they can refer to in the future.
- It enables them to store the student performance reports in the system without having to document them manually.
- The tools automate most of the activities, which enables teachers to focus their time and attention on instructional activities.
2. Enhanced Accessibility to Learning
A timetable or schedule for classes provides structure and organises the academic system through subject-specific sessions. Therefore, students need to attend the classes accordingly so that they keep up with the rest of the class’s pace.
However, it is not always feasible for them to attend classes regularly due to health issues. On the other hand, some of them are working professionals pursuing higher studies. Hence, it is difficult for them to manage their academics and work effectively.
Fortunately, students are less stressed about missing classes as they can access learning and course materials from anywhere, anytime. All they need is an internet connection and a well-functioning device (a computer, laptop, or smartphone). Thus, they can get access to:
- Pre-recorded lectures and explanatory videos
- Micro-learning sessions help students learn complex topics through bite-sized, manageable content.
- Interviews and podcasts allow students to engage in different ways of learning and expanding their knowledge.
Furthermore, it provides flexibility and convenience to students, enabling them to learn according to their pace. Hence, they don’t need to function in response to the inherent peer pressure.
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3. Effortless Data Management
Gone are the days when the admin staff used registers or a basic computerised spreadsheet to collect and maintain student information. Besides, educational institutes need a modern mechanism that caters to evolving requirements.
That is why the integration of both of the above-mentioned systems is an optimum solution for the institute. One of the best advantages is that it provides easy and real-time synchronisation of crucial student information.
For instance, they can sync or transfer student details related to admission, grades, academic performance, and progress reports. As a result, stakeholders can obtain up-to-date data and monitor students' current academic status. It also leads to effective student data management.
4. Assured data accuracy
Is the attendance report accurate? What about the academic report? Teachers spend an extended amount of time to avoid mistakes and create accurate reports. One can say the same about the ones that the admin staff creates.
Nonetheless, despite the expertise and cautiousness, one cannot help but make mistakes. That is what the integration of Student Information Systems and LMS helps to evade. Besides, it ensures that users have access to accurate data.
As a result, teachers and administrators can make better decisions depending on the data. For instance, the attendance report helps to indicate frequently absent or at-risk students. Therefore, teachers and administrative staff can collaborate to prepare an appropriate plan of action or intervention to retain students.
5. Real-Time Feedback
Assessments prove to be one-dimensional if the next step does not include an elaborate evaluation and teacher response. In the context of the traditional education system, teachers usually provide feedback or responses after the results.
However, such results have little or limited scope for helping students; therefore, teachers can use the tool to assess the students in real time. Moreover, it has various related benefits, which are as follows:
- Teachers can provide instant feedback on the assignments or assessments that students have completed.
- It enables them to identify the strengths and weaknesses of individual students.
- They can provide individualised guidance and instruction for areas that require improvement.
- They can use the tool for student data management as well as facilitate continuous support to enhance their learning process.
- Students can gain insight from the teacher’s recommendation and implement the corrective step.
- It increases self-awareness and motivates students to stay on the right track.