14. Other Packages

These packages are not installed by default with the dotlrn platform, but here's a little description of their functionality

14.1. Weblogs

.LRN is distributed with an integrated web log package, which allows students to have personal weblogs as well as weblogs for classes, subgroups, and communities. These can be used for individual or group note taking. This blogging functionally includes full RSS support, blogger API support, and formatted text entry.

14.2. Gradebook/Evaluation

With the evaluation system, students submit completed tasks online and they can see their grades at any given time. The instructor can create tasks, assign ratios to the tasks and post grades. The students can submit the tasks on line and see their grades at any given time. This is a list of the basic functionality of package:

  • Post assignments

  • Create categories for the assignments

  • Edit the ratios of the categories and assignments

  • Create assignments groups

  • Evaluate the assignments

  • Submit and view grade reports

  • Submit answers

  • Post reports for the student

  • Track changes/Audit

  • Give each user different privileges

14.3. Web Powerpoint

WimpyPoint is the .LRN alternative for Microsoft's Powerpoint application. In some ways, mostly in design, it is a simpler looking tool, but in another way - collaboration - it is a more powerful, community-minded tool. With WimpyPoint, learners can create presentations that are stored online instead of on one learner's machine. This enables collaborative development by improving accessibility. The creator of a new presentation chooses her collaborators and who can view the presentation. Within a .LRN installation, then, a repository of presentations can be developed and shared among all users, extending learning and collaboration.

14.4. Photo Album

Photo Album is a tool that can be used for uploading photos and images that can be shared with all members within a class or community. It structure functions similar to file storage, using the concept of folders and albums within folders.