LAMS vs Moodle LMS

LAMS is an open-source system for designing, managing and delivering collaborative online learning activities. Teachers create activity sequences in a visual authoring environment, while separate Author, Monitor and Learner areas support creation, oversight and participation. It can run as a standalone e-learning system or connect with an LMS. Listed integrations include Moodle, Sakai, Blackboard/WebCT, .LRN, Microsoft SharePoint and Tiger Online Training LMS, with options for single sign-on and automatic course and user creation from LMS information. LAMS supports multimedia content, interactive activities, branching paths, live lesson delivery and learner analytics. Version 2.2 supports exporting in IMS Learning Design Level A format. Released under the GPL, it is available as a free download when users install, configure and maintain it themselves under the license. LAMS International offers support, hosting, training, updates, upgrades and development services. The maker describes use in K–12, vocational, higher and adult or community education. Commercial services and licensing have no listed fees.

Moodle LMS is offered here as MoodleCloud, a managed and hosted learning platform for individuals selling courses and small organisations. Users can create unlimited courses with unlimited activities, while the Moodle team maintains sites and updates them to the latest Moodle LMS version. Plans accommodate 50 to 750 users, with storage from 1 GB on Starter to 50 GB on Standard. All plans include the Moodle App Premium plan at no extra cost.

Course payments are supported through Stripe and PayPal integrations; Stripe course selling is listed for Small, Medium, and Standard plans. Custom domains are available on Medium and Standard: the Medium add-on costs $160 AUD per year, while Standard includes one. MoodleCloud sites cannot install plugins or integrations. Support includes a knowledge base, priority assistance, and contact through the MoodleCloud Portal. Paid plans are billed annually in Australian Dollars, and no plan prices are listed. The Starter trial lasts 28 days and requires no credit card; plans can be upgraded through the Customer Portal.