The implications of learning management system on education quality in the new normal era: Evidence from Islamic higher education

Abstract

The implementation of the learning management system (LMS) in the New Normal period was investigated in this study. A qualitative research design with a descriptive approach was used to explore two main themes: the advantages of using LMS applications and the disadvantages of using LMS applications. The data collection technique used was a written interview method with 10 lecturers and 50 students analyzed using content analysis techniques. This study was conducted at the Islamic State Institute of Metro (IAIN), Metro City, Lampung Province. The advantages of using LMS applications in education were indicated by the suitability of the LMS applications with the needs of lectures in creating, distributing, and managing learning content anytime and anywhere. Students showed weakness in using the LMS application mainly because of poor signal problems, lack of interaction in learning, and the impossibility of uploading videos and photos for practical assignments. It is concluded from these findings that using the LMS requires strong network support throughout the region. The LMS application is required to update its capacity to send lecture assignments in the form of videos and photos so that learning is maximized. Interactive learning between lecturers and students is needed to support learning. The expected implication is that the government needs to consider supporting policies related to cooperation with the private sector to build Internet access throughout Indonesia. Additionally, stakeholders must focus on the availability of LMS support facilities, providing alternative offline classroom software, and the Merdeka Learning-Independent Campus (MBKM) program based on digital technology to reach better higher education.