The Texas State Learning Management System Advisory Committee has been created to assess if TRACS needs to be replaced and if so, which system would replace it.
Comparing potential TRACS replacements will be done throughout 2018 with Texas State community input and feature presentations from potential LMS providers. In 2019, preliminary pilots of one of these potential systems will be implemented and the board of regents will approve or deny that new system. By 2022, the new system will be implemented across Texas State.
Assessing what the Texas State community would like to see changed in a LMS began April 2017. Evaluating TRACS and other systems will continue through this year before any change is implemented.
Because of the quick changes in technology, Texas State is looking to use an LMS that will create a better interface for students, faculty and the entire Texas State community.
“Sakai (is) managed by a community that has not been able to keep up with the ever-quickening pace of advancements in online and digital learning environments,” stated the LMS Advisory Committee FAQ page.
The potential LMS products have been narrowed down to Blackboard, Canvas and Brightspace. These are systems similar to TRACS that will perform the same tasks but with more customization and user-friendly interface.
Updates and input can be shared by joining the Outlook email group for anyone with a current Texas State email.
Texas State will host presentations from potential LMS providers to share more information about the LMS replacement process. These presentations can be attended by faculty or be live streamed by anyone in the Texas State community with an active NetID.
The Blackboard presentation will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, March 5. Canvas’ presentation will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 7. Brightspace’s presentation will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, March 9.