Learning Tools Interoperability v1.0 Project Group
IMS Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) v1.0 provides a single framework or standard way of integrating rich learning applications—in LTI called Tools—with platforms like learning management systems, portals, or other systems from which applications can be launched—called Tool Consumers.
The basic use case behind the development of the LTI specification is to allow the seamless connection of web-based, externally hosted applications and content, or Tools (from simple communication applications like chat, to domain-specific learning environments for complex subjects like math or science) to platforms that present them to users. In other words, if you have an interactive assessment application or virtual chemistry lab, it can be securely connected to learning/course management systems, portals, etc. in standard ways without having to develop and maintain custom integrations.
The Benefits of LTI
- Increases options for students and instructors when selecting learning applications.
- Reduces development costs for Tool Providers to develop custom integrations with many LMSs.
- Reduces support costs for institutions, LMS vendors and Tool Providers coming from a more clearly defined interface between the LMS and the Tool.
- Protects the LMS from poorly written proprietary tool integrations.
- Enables software as a service (SaaS), fast becoming prevalent in all segments of the market.
- Enables mash-ups of applications within the learning system or portal.
- Allows common tools to be used across multiple LMS systems.
- Ultimately spurs the kind of innovation that improves education.
Basic LTI
Basic LTI is a subset or profile of the full LTI v1.0 specification and is now in Final Release, ready for adoption here. Basic LTI conformance testing for LMSs and applications is available through the CC & LTI Alliance. A list of conformant systems and applications is available here.
What are the differences between Basic LTI and LTI v1.0?
- Basic LTI exposes a single destination into the application. The procedure for establishing a link to this single destination is very simple, but limited. There is no provision for accessing run-time services in the LMS and only one security policy is supported.
- LTI v1.0 defines a formal, negotiated deployment process whereby the LMS and application reach an agreement about (1) the run-time services that will be used to support tight integrations between the systems, (2) the security policies that will apply, and (3) the set of destinations within the application that can be launched from the LMS.
LTI and Common Cartridge
LTI complements the Common Cartridge standard with access to rich, web-based applications or Tools embedded into cartridges with active, authenticated links back to the centrally hosted content. High stakes or premium content can be integrated into specific learning contexts and support the retrieval of results, making the value of eBooks and online content a reality.
Current Status
With the completion of the Basic LTI specification, the LTI working group continues to develop the documentation for the full specification and suite of services. As of the second quarter of 2010, the group has begun releasing the Internal Draft version of the spec to IMS Members and Affiliates for review and implementation.
LTI v1.0 Project Group
The Goal
IMS is developing LTI v1.0 to allow external/remote tools and resources to be integrated into learning environments or systems.
The IMS Tools Interoperability Guidelines had a limited scope and aimed at achieving a simple connection between the LMS and a tool. LTI v1.0 will extend the original guidelines to address Tool Configuration, Tool Presentation, accessibility issues, and access to LMS data such as calendar, grade book and content.
Participants
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The Charter
The IMS Technical Board approved the Learning Tools Interoperability Charter in March 2007. IMS GLC Community Members may download a copy of the charter.
Join in the discussion about Basic LTI on the IMS Public Community forum.
Further Information
For information on Learning Tools Interoperability, please contact us.