D2L Debuts Desire2Learn Essentials

By David Nagel

Software developer Desire2Learn is lowering the ante for campus-wide CMS/LMS adoption. The company today debuted a new version of its course and learning management system designed for small-size universities and colleges (those with fewer than 5,000 users), as well as e-learning programs.

The new tool, called Desire2Learn Essentials, offers functionality similar to that of D2L's large-scale Desire2Learn Learning Environment , along with customization features designed to enhance experiences for students and faculty alike.

"Desire2Learn Essentials addresses the core issues smaller institutions face.  By offering a competitive edge to access a powerful enterprise-scale application, with all the required tools and functionality enabling rapid development, delivery, all learners can benefit from a quality online experience. Desire2Learn Essentials empowers smaller institutions to maximize their resources and enables them to have the same e-learning opportunities as larger institutions," said Patricia Fellows, instructional technology and training coordinator at University of Wisconsin Colleges, in a prepared statement.

Essentials is a Web-based suite hosted by Desire2Learn that provides a widget-based interface for customization of elements, such as news, user guides, events, and various other types of optional content. Some of the specific features include:

• Customization throughout the interface, down to the course level;
• A variety of question types for quizzes and tests;
• Self-assessment features for students;
• Tracking of student involvement in the system, including materials read and tests taken;
• Gradebook features;
• Discussions and blogs;
• Support for RSS; and
• Dropoffs for assignments.

D2L told us that implementation of Essentials, including conversion of courses, can be accomplished in five business days. Essentials is available now for institutions with fewer than 5,000 users. Pricing is determined on a case by case basis.

Please visit the Campus Technology Web site Thursday, March 1, for an in depth "first look" at Desire2Learn Essentials.

For more information, click here.