The new LMS aims to streamline training and enhance collaboration for researchers
The Canadian Neurodevelopmental Research Training (CanNRT) Platform is set to launch a new Learning Management System (LMS) by Summer 2025. This platform will serve as a hub for all materials and resources related to the CanNRT curriculum, providing members with access to content and tools that will enhance their learning experience.
A key feature of the LMS is its integration with the ENRiCH-RISE (Raising Interdisciplinary Scientist Excellence) platform. Built on the open-source Moodle framework, this collaboration allows CanNRT to consolidate its training tools within a customizable system. The RISE platform’s ability to support interdisciplinary research and provide flexible course delivery and evaluation options makes it a good fit for CanNRT’s needs.
The LMS was initially introduced at the 2024 Summer School, where it was used as a supplementary resource for students and instructors to access PowerPoints and related course materials. Many of the courses from the Summer School will also form the foundation for future learning streams, which will be accessible to CanNRT members.
“To ensure the system meets the needs of its users, CanNRT incorporated feedback from a focus group of 3rd-year students at the Summer School,” said Kenneth Dyson, who led the interactive session at this year’s Summer School. “This co-creation approach – where participants actively contribute to the design process – aligns with CanNRT’s commitment to collaborative curriculum development.”
Key feedback from the focus group highlighted several important features and requirements for the LMS. Participants emphasized the need for an intuitive user interface to ease navigation, along with engaging video lectures that maintain visibility of the speaker to enhance connection with the content. The importance of accessible resources, such as hyperlinks to supplemental materials and a glossary of key terms, was also noted, ensuring users from diverse disciplinary backgrounds can fully engage with the material.
Moreover, participants discussed the need for clear learning objectives and incentives for course completion, suggesting options like certificates and mentorship opportunities that could be highlighted on CVs. They stressed that the LMS should serve as both an educational tool and a platform for professional networking among students and faculty.
The LMS will also foster improved communication among participants, making it easier for members to engage with the content and with each other. By consolidating these resources into a single platform, CanNRT aims to offer a more integrated and efficient learning experience for current and future cohorts.
Stay tuned for more information!
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The Canadian Neurodevelopmental Research Training (CanNRT) Platform is a collaborative training hub that supports sustainable and equitable pathways for early career researchers in neurodevelopment across Canada through cross-sector learning, mentorship, and connectivity. CanNRT is proudly powered by the Azrieli Foundation.
