Brandeis University Learning Management System (LMS) Use Policy
Definitions:
A Learning Management System (LMS) is a software application that facilitates the administration, documentation, tracking, reporting, automation, and delivery of educational courses, training programs, or learning and development programs.
Moodle LMS is Brandeis University's approved Learning Management System.
Third-Party Technology Tools are defined as software, applications, or other related tools that are not part of or otherwise integrated directly into the University's approved LMS.
Summary:
Brandeis University is dedicated to fostering a secure, FERPA-compliant, and accessible learning environment. This policy has been designed to ensure Brandeis, its community, and both the private and personal data of our members is kept safe and secure; to adhere and confirm to industry standards and best practices in the use of teaching and learning technology platforms throughout academia; and to ensure compliance with other pre-existing policies at Brandeis.
This policy will be periodically reviewed to align with evolving technology standards and educational best practices. Effective as of Fall 2025, this policy supersedes any previous policies related to LMS usage for course development.
Brandeis University LMS Use Policy
Policy Statement:
Brandeis University is committed to maintaining a secure, FERPA-compliant, and accessible learning environment for its students, faculty, and staff. The university's LMS, specifically Moodle LMS, has been collaboratively developed with these considerations in mind to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of educational resources. When using an LMS, Instructors are required to utilize the university-provided system or to make requests for other systems or services through the Academic Technology Advisory Committee or its "LMS Subcommittee".
Responsibilities:
While faculty are not required to use a Learning Management System in their courses, those instructors who wish to do so are required to use the university-approved, provided, and supported Moodle LMS Platform. Brandeis University's Moodle LMS aligns with security standards, complies with FERPA regulations, prioritizes accessibility, and provides a comprehensive set of tools and integrations to cater to diverse learning needs.
The use of independently hosted or third-party Learning Management Systems, such as a self-hosted Moodle or Canvas LMS, is prohibited. This includes any technology or service outside of the approved University LMS that is specifically used as LMS as defined in this policy, even when only certain aspects of the service are being used (ex. Google Sites, Discord, etc).
Third-Party-Tools used for teaching and learning are not part of the scope of this policy, however, the procurement and use of these tools must be reviewed by Brandeis' Academic Technology Advisory Committee (ATAC). The ATAC collaborates with other policy owners on campus to ensure products and services used for teaching and learning adhere to data security, data governance, accessibility, FERPA, and other requirements.
Compliance and Enforcement:
Failure to comply with this policy may result in a record of non-compliance being shared with the offending employee's manager, Faculty Affairs, IT Security Office, Dean, or with the Provost, following university policies and procedures.
Review and Amendments:
This policy will be periodically reviewed and updated to align with evolving technology standards and educational best practices. Any proposed amendments will be communicated to the university community.
This policy is effective Fall 2025 and supersedes any prior policies related to the use of the LMS for course development.
Policy Owner:
Academic Technology Advisory Committee (ATAC)
Review Date:
September 2026