Design and Development of the Kit Learning Management System

Abstract

Kit is a new open source web-based Learning Management System designed to facilitate online assignment submission, grading, grade storage and analysis, and storage of digital class materials in a secure location. Class materials may be created in the context of a single class, or added as course materials which are reused between sections and terms. Kit also automatically manages a git server, providing a framework for integrating git version control into a Computer Science curriculum. It prioritizes providing clear feedback to students through a rubric-based system that expedites grading and supports consistency. Kit also provides tools to help instructors identify struggling students. The Computer Science department at Kalamazoo College currently uses Kit, and has received positive feedback from students, graders, and instructors. Kit will be released as free and open source software once improved documentation is produced.