Master Public Resources LTI: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learning Management Systems (LMS) are increasingly reliant on interoperable tools. This reliance makes understanding Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) crucial. Public resources LTI offers a standardized way to integrate external educational content, like those found via MERLOT, directly into your LMS. The following steps guide you to master integrating and utilizing public resources LTI to enrich your online courses and improve student access to valuable, open educational resources (OER).

Image taken from the YouTube channel Instructure: The Makers of Canvas , from the video titled Getting Started with LTIs .

In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, institutions are constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance the learning experience while managing costs effectively.

One powerful approach lies in leveraging public educational resources within Learning Management Systems (LMS) through Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI).

This integration offers a gateway to a wealth of affordable, high-quality learning materials, significantly expanding access for students and empowering educators with diverse content options. Let's explore how this works.

Understanding LTI's Role in Modern Education

LTI, or Learning Tools Interoperability, acts as a bridge, facilitating seamless integration between external tools and an LMS.

Think of it as a universal adapter that allows various educational applications and resources to communicate and interact with platforms like Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle, and others.

Its significance in modern education stems from its ability to break down the silos between different learning technologies.

LTI enables educators to incorporate a wide array of resources directly into their courses, creating a richer and more engaging learning environment for students.

Defining "Public Resources" in Education

The term "Public Resources," in the context of education, generally refers to materials that are freely available for use, adaptation, and distribution.

This often includes Open Educational Resources (OER), which are teaching, learning, and research materials that reside in the public domain or have been released under an open license.

These licenses, such as those provided by Creative Commons, grant permissions for users to engage with the content in ways that traditional copyright restrictions often prohibit.

Examples of public resources include open textbooks, openly licensed videos, interactive simulations, and a vast collection of other educational materials.

The Advantages of Public Resources via LTI

The integration of public resources via LTI offers a multitude of advantages for both institutions and learners.

One of the most significant benefits is cost savings. By utilizing OER and other freely available materials, institutions can reduce the financial burden on students.

This is especially impactful for learners from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

Furthermore, public resources often offer greater accessibility compared to traditional materials.

They can be easily adapted to meet the needs of diverse learners, including those with disabilities.

LTI-integrated public resources often meet accessibility standards, ensuring that all students can engage with the content effectively.

Additionally, the quality of many public resources is on par with, or even exceeds, that of commercially produced materials.

Many OER undergo rigorous peer review processes to ensure accuracy and relevance.

Navigating the Integration Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

This guide aims to provide a clear, step-by-step approach to integrating and leveraging public resources within your LMS using LTI.

We will walk you through the process, from selecting the right resources and obtaining the necessary credentials to configuring LTI settings and troubleshooting common issues.

By following these instructions, educators and administrators can harness the power of public resources to create more affordable, accessible, and engaging learning experiences for all students.

In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, institutions are constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance the learning experience while managing costs effectively. One powerful approach lies in leveraging public educational resources within Learning Management Systems (LMS) through Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI). This integration offers a gateway to a wealth of affordable, high-quality learning materials, significantly expanding access for students and empowering educators with diverse content options. Let's explore how this works. Understanding LTI's Role in Modern Education. LTI, or Learning Tools Interoperability, acts as a bridge, facilitating seamless integration between external tools and an LMS. Think of it as a universal adapter that allows various educational applications and resources to communicate and interact with platforms like Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle, and others. Its significance in modern education stems from its ability to break down the silos between different learning technologies. LTI enables educators to incorporate a wide array of resources directly into their courses, creating a richer and more engaging learning environment for students. Defining "Public Resources" in Education. The term "Public Resources," in the context of education, generally refers to materials that are freely available for use, adaptation, and distribution. This often includes Open Educational Resources (OER), which are teaching, learning, and research materials that reside in the public domain or have been released under an open license. These licenses, such as those provided by Creative Commons, grant permissions for users to engage with the content in ways that traditional copyright restrictions often prohibit. Examples of public resources include open textbooks,... Now, to truly harness the power of LTI and public resources, it’s essential to delve into the foundational understanding of both.

Understanding LTI and Public Resources: The Foundation

Before embarking on the integration process, a solid grasp of LTI's mechanics and the scope of public resources is paramount. This section aims to provide that grounding, clarifying key concepts and paving the way for successful implementation.

What is LTI?

At its core, Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) is a standardized protocol that allows learning applications and tools hosted on external servers to seamlessly integrate with Learning Management Systems (LMS). Think of it as a universal language that enables different educational technologies to communicate and work together.

It eliminates the need for custom integrations, saving institutions valuable time and resources.

LTI's Core Function: Seamless LMS Integration

LTI's primary function is to bridge the gap between an LMS and external learning tools. It facilitates the exchange of information, such as user identity, course context, and potentially grades, enabling users to access external tools directly from within their familiar LMS environment.

This creates a unified and streamlined learning experience.

Instead of requiring students to navigate to separate websites and log in independently, LTI embeds the external tool directly into the course, enhancing convenience and engagement.

LTI Versions and Capabilities: Focusing on LTI Advantage

The LTI standard has evolved over time, with newer versions offering enhanced capabilities and improved security. LTI Advantage represents the latest generation of the protocol, offering a suite of services designed to create more robust and personalized learning experiences.

Key features of LTI Advantage include:

• Deep Linking: Allows instructors to directly select and embed specific content items from the external tool within their course.

• Assignment and Grade Services: Enables seamless synchronization of assignments and grades between the LMS and the external tool.

• Names and Roles Provisioning Services: Facilitates the sharing of user and role information, ensuring that users have appropriate access to resources.

While older LTI versions may still be supported by some platforms, it's generally recommended to utilize LTI Advantage whenever possible to leverage its advanced features and improved security.

Defining Public Resources

In the context of education, "Public Resources" encompasses a wide range of materials that are freely available for educational use. This often includes Open Educational Resources (OER), but can also extend to other publicly accessible content.

The defining characteristic of public resources is that they can be used, adapted, and distributed without requiring permission from the copyright holder, as long as the terms of the license are followed.

What Constitutes a "Public Resource"? (e.g., OER, Openly Licensed Content)

The most common type of public resource is Open Educational Resources (OER). OER are teaching, learning, and research materials that are either in the public domain or have been released under an open license.

These licenses, such as those offered by Creative Commons, grant permissions for users to:

• Retain: Make, own, and control copies of the content.
• Reuse: Use the content in a wide range of ways.
• Revise: Adapt, adjust, modify, or alter the content.
• Remix: Combine the original content with other content to create something new.
• Redistribute: Share copies of the original content, revisions, or remixes with others.

Beyond OER, other types of publicly accessible content can also be considered public resources, provided they are freely available for educational use. Examples include materials from government agencies, non-profit organizations, and open-access journals.

Examples of Content Providers Specializing in Public Resources (e.g., OER Repositories)

Numerous organizations and repositories specialize in providing access to public resources. Some notable examples include:

• OER Commons: A vast digital library of OER materials, covering a wide range of subjects and grade levels.
• MERLOT (Multimedia Educational Resource for Learning and Online Teaching): A curated collection of OER materials, peer-reviewed for quality and effectiveness.
• OpenStax: A non-profit organization that publishes high-quality, peer-reviewed open textbooks for college and high school courses.
• LibreTexts: A collaborative project dedicated to creating a comprehensive collection of open textbooks and other educational resources.
• Khan Academy: Offers free educational videos and exercises covering a wide range of subjects, primarily focused on math and science.

These are just a few examples, and many other valuable resources are available online. Exploring these repositories can help educators discover high-quality, affordable materials to enhance their courses.

The Role of the IMS Global Learning Consortium

The IMS Global Learning Consortium plays a crucial role in the LTI ecosystem. IMS Global is a non-profit organization that develops and maintains the LTI standard, ensuring interoperability and promoting innovation in educational technology.

The consortium brings together educational institutions, technology vendors, and other stakeholders to collaboratively develop and evolve the LTI specification.

By adhering to the LTI standard, developers can ensure that their tools will work seamlessly with a wide range of LMS platforms, expanding their reach and impact. IMS Global also provides resources and support for developers and institutions implementing LTI, facilitating adoption and promoting best practices. Understanding the role of IMS Global helps to appreciate the collaborative effort behind LTI and its importance in fostering a more connected and interoperable educational landscape.

Preparing for LTI Integration: Setting the Stage for Success

Before diving into the technical aspects of linking public educational resources to your Learning Management System (LMS) using Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI), careful preparation is crucial. This foundational groundwork will not only streamline the integration process but also significantly enhance the overall learning experience for your students.

The key lies in selecting the right resource, understanding the essential LTI credentials, and verifying compatibility with your specific LMS. Let's explore these preliminary steps in detail.

Choosing the Right Public Resource: Quality, Relevance, and Licensing

Selecting the appropriate public resource for LTI integration is more than simply finding free content. It involves a thoughtful evaluation based on several critical criteria.

Quality should be paramount.

Is the content accurate, up-to-date, and pedagogically sound? Look for resources that have been peer-reviewed or developed by reputable organizations. Don't sacrifice quality for the sake of cost savings.

Next, consider relevance.

Does the resource align directly with your course learning objectives and curriculum? A tangential resource, even if well-produced, can be a distraction rather than an asset.

Licensing is also of utmost importance.

Ensure that the resource is indeed openly licensed (e.g., Creative Commons) and that its terms of use permit LTI integration. Pay close attention to any restrictions on modification or commercial use.

Identifying Content Providers with LTI Support

Not all public resource providers offer LTI support. Fortunately, many openly share the information. Here are a few tips for pinpointing those that do:

• Check the provider's website: Look for sections dedicated to LTI integration, developer documentation, or partner programs.

• Search the provider's help center: Keywords like "LTI," "integration," or "LMS" can lead you to relevant articles or guides.

• Contact the provider directly: If you can't find the information online, reach out to their support team or sales department.

• Consult community forums and online groups: Educators often share their experiences and recommendations in online forums dedicated to OER and educational technology.

Understanding LTI Credentials: Key and Secret

LTI utilizes a secure handshake mechanism to ensure that only authorized tools can access your LMS. This is accomplished through two essential credentials: the LTI Key and the LTI Secret.

The LTI Key acts as a unique identifier for the tool. It's like a username that tells the LMS which resource is attempting to connect.

The LTI Secret is a confidential password known only to the LMS and the resource provider. It's used to verify the authenticity of the connection and prevent unauthorized access.

Think of them as a matched pair that ensures secure communication between the two platforms.

Obtaining LTI Credentials from the Content Provider

The process for obtaining LTI credentials varies depending on the content provider. However, it typically involves the following steps:

1. Create an account: You may need to register for an account on the content provider's platform.

2. Request LTI credentials: Look for a section related to LTI integration, API access, or developer settings. You may need to submit a request form.

3. Provide LMS information: The provider may ask for information about your LMS, such as its name, version, and URL.

4. Receive the Key and Secret: Once your request is approved, the provider will provide you with the LTI Key and Secret. Store these credentials securely, as they are essential for the integration process.

Checking LMS Compatibility: Ensuring Seamless Integration

Before proceeding with the LTI integration, it's imperative to verify that your LMS supports LTI and the specific version required by the public resource.

Most modern LMS platforms support LTI, but compatibility can vary depending on the version and configuration.

Consult your LMS documentation or contact your LMS vendor to determine the level of LTI support.

Furthermore, the public resource provider should specify the LTI version it requires. LTI 1.1 is widely supported, but LTI Advantage (which includes LTI 1.3 and related services) offers enhanced features and security.

If your LMS doesn't support the required LTI version, you may need to upgrade your platform or seek alternative resources. Neglecting this step can lead to integration failures and a frustrating user experience.

Choosing the right resource, understanding the necessary LTI credentials, and verifying LMS compatibility sets the stage. But how do you actually bring these pieces together within your learning environment? The following section unpacks the practical steps to integrate your chosen public resource into your LMS using LTI, transforming preparatory groundwork into tangible learning experiences.

Step-by-Step LTI Integration Process: A Practical Guide

Integrating a public resource into your Learning Management System (LMS) via LTI involves a series of straightforward steps. This section breaks down each stage, from accessing your LMS administration panel to testing the final integration.

Accessing the LMS Administration Panel

The first step is locating the area within your LMS where external tools can be configured.

This is typically found within the administrative settings or site administration area.

The exact terminology and location vary depending on your specific LMS (e.g., Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle, Brightspace).

Look for sections labeled "Apps," "Integrations," "External Tools," or something similar. Consult your LMS documentation or support resources if you're unsure where to find this section.

Adding a New LTI Tool

Once you've located the administration panel, you'll need to add the public resource as a new LTI tool.

This usually involves selecting an option like "Add External Tool," "Register LTI Tool," or a similarly worded command.

You may be prompted to choose between different LTI versions.

If the public resource supports LTI Advantage, it's generally recommended to select that option for enhanced functionality and security.

Configuring the LTI Settings

This is the most crucial step, as it involves entering the LTI credentials and settings provided by the content provider.

Entering the LTI Key and Secret

Carefully copy and paste the LTI Key and Secret from the content provider's website or documentation into the corresponding fields in your LMS.

These credentials are case-sensitive, so ensure accuracy.

The Key and Secret act as a secure handshake between your LMS and the external resource.

Specifying the LTI Launch URL

The LTI launch URL is another critical piece of information provided by the content provider.

This URL tells your LMS where to send users when they access the integrated tool.

Enter this URL exactly as provided, paying close attention to capitalization and punctuation.

An incorrect launch URL will prevent the integration from working.

Setting Privacy Options

LTI allows you to control the amount of user information shared between your LMS and the public resource.

Consider the privacy implications of each setting.

You may be able to choose whether to send the user's name, email address, and course information.

Balance the need for personalization with your commitment to student data privacy.

Testing the LTI Integration

After configuring the settings, it's essential to test the integration to ensure it's working correctly.

Create a test link within a course or module in your LMS.

This link should point to the newly integrated LTI tool.

Click the link to launch the public resource.

Verify that the tool launches correctly and that you are able to access the content.

If you encounter any errors, double-check your LTI settings and consult the troubleshooting resources provided by your LMS and the content provider.

Choosing the right resource, understanding the necessary LTI credentials, and verifying LMS compatibility sets the stage. But how do you actually bring these pieces together within your learning environment? The following section unpacks the practical steps to integrate your chosen public resource into your LMS using LTI, transforming preparatory groundwork into tangible learning experiences.

Configuring LTI for Optimal Use: Maximizing Impact

LTI integration isn't just about getting a resource to launch; it's about ensuring a seamless and effective learning experience. Thoughtful configuration is crucial to maximizing the impact of your integrated public resources. This involves understanding how information is passed between systems, strategically placing resources within your LMS, and safeguarding user data.

Understanding Launch Parameters: The Language of LTI

LTI relies on launch parameters to facilitate communication between your LMS and the external public resource. These parameters are essentially data points transmitted when a user accesses the integrated tool.

These parameters can include user ID, course ID, role (student, instructor), and other contextual information.

Understanding which parameters are being passed and how the public resource utilizes them is vital. This knowledge allows you to fine-tune the integration, ensuring data is handled correctly and the user experience is personalized.

Contact the public resource provider for a comprehensive list of launch parameters supported and their respective functions.

Setting Placement Options: Where Should the Resource Live?

Placement options dictate where within your LMS users can access the integrated public resource.

This is more than just a matter of convenience; it's about aligning the resource with the learning flow.

Strategic Placement Examples

• Content Area: Ideal for resources directly related to specific modules or lessons.
• Navigation Menu: Suitable for tools that students may need to access frequently throughout the course.
• Assignment Integration: Allows seamless integration of external tools directly into assignments for submission or grading.

Carefully consider the context in which students will use the resource and choose the placement that minimizes friction and maximizes engagement.

The goal is intuitive access for learners.

Ensuring User Authentication and Authorization: Protecting User Data

User authentication and authorization are paramount for protecting user data and maintaining a secure learning environment. LTI handles authentication, verifying the user's identity when they access the resource.

However, it's crucial to ensure that only authorized users can access the resource and that data privacy is respected.

Verifying Proper Authentication

Confirm that the LTI integration correctly identifies and authenticates users from your LMS. Test the integration with different user roles (student, instructor) to ensure appropriate access levels.

Addressing Data Privacy Concerns

Understand what user data is being shared with the public resource and ensure compliance with your institution's privacy policies and relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR, FERPA).

Communicate clearly with students about what data is being shared and how it will be used.

LTI integration should enhance, not compromise, user privacy.

Choosing the right resource, understanding the necessary LTI credentials, and verifying LMS compatibility sets the stage. But how do you actually bring these pieces together within your learning environment? The following section unpacks the practical steps to integrate your chosen public resource into your LMS using LTI, transforming preparatory groundwork into tangible learning experiences.

Troubleshooting Common LTI Integration Issues: Resolving Challenges

LTI integration, while powerful, isn't always seamless. Even with careful preparation, you may encounter bumps along the road. The key is not to be discouraged, but to approach troubleshooting systematically.

This section provides practical advice for navigating common LTI integration problems. By understanding potential pitfalls and effective solutions, you can minimize frustration and ensure a smooth learning experience for your students. Let's explore the common hurdles.

Error Messages and Debugging

One of the first indicators of a problem is often an error message. These messages, while sometimes cryptic, provide valuable clues about what's going wrong.

Interpreting Common LTI Error Messages

Pay close attention to the specific wording of the error. Search online for the exact error message, including your LMS platform, to find relevant troubleshooting guides or forum discussions.

Common errors relate to:

• Invalid credentials: This usually indicates a problem with the Key or Secret.
• Incorrect launch URL: Verify that the URL is correct and points to the proper endpoint.
• Permission issues: Ensure that the LMS and the external tool have the necessary permissions to communicate.

Troubleshooting Connection Problems

If the tool fails to launch at all, there may be a connection issue.

• Check your internet connection: This might seem obvious, but it's always worth verifying.
• Firewall restrictions: Make sure your firewall isn't blocking communication between the LMS and the external tool.
• SSL certificates: Ensure that both the LMS and the external tool are using valid SSL certificates.

Key and Secret Validation

The LTI Key and Secret act as the handshake between your LMS and the external resource. Entering these incorrectly is one of the most common causes of LTI integration failures.

Double-Checking Credentials

Carefully re-enter the Key and Secret, paying close attention to capitalization and spacing. Even a minor typo can prevent the integration from working. It's helpful to copy and paste directly from the provider's documentation, if possible, to avoid manual entry errors.

Resetting Credentials

If you suspect the credentials have been compromised, or if you're consistently encountering errors despite double-checking, consider requesting a new Key and Secret from the content provider. Treat these credentials like passwords – keep them secure and avoid sharing them unnecessarily.

Checking LMS Logs

LMS logs are a valuable resource for diagnosing LTI integration problems. These logs record detailed information about user activity, system events, and errors.

Locating and Interpreting Logs

Familiarize yourself with how to access and interpret the LMS logs. Consult your LMS documentation or support resources for guidance.

Look for entries related to LTI, external tools, or authentication failures. These entries may provide insights into the source of the problem, such as specific launch parameters that are not being passed correctly.

Using Logs for Diagnosis

LMS logs often contain error codes or messages that can be used to pinpoint the cause of the problem.

Note the timestamp of the error to correlate it with specific user actions. This can help you identify the exact scenario that triggers the issue.

Contacting Support

When all else fails, don't hesitate to seek assistance from the LMS vendor or the content provider. They have specialized expertise and access to resources that can help resolve complex integration problems.

Knowing When to Escalate

If you've exhausted your own troubleshooting efforts and are still unable to resolve the issue, it's time to contact support. Provide them with detailed information about the problem, including:

• The specific error message you're encountering.
• The steps you've already taken to troubleshoot the issue.
• Details about your LMS environment (version, configuration).
• The LTI credentials you're using.

Leveraging Support Resources

Take advantage of the support resources offered by both the LMS vendor and the content provider. This may include:

• Online documentation.
• Help forums.
• Email or phone support.

By combining your own troubleshooting efforts with expert assistance, you can overcome LTI integration challenges and unlock the potential of public resources for your students.

Choosing the right resource, understanding the necessary LTI credentials, and verifying LMS compatibility sets the stage. But how do you actually bring these pieces together within your learning environment? The following section unpacks the practical steps to integrate your chosen public resource into your LMS using LTI, transforming preparatory groundwork into tangible learning experiences.

Best Practices for Using Public Resources via LTI: Enhancing the Learning Experience

Integrating public resources via LTI is more than just a technical exercise; it’s about enhancing the learning experience for your students. To truly leverage the power of these resources, you need a strategy that goes beyond simply making them available.

This involves carefully aligning resources with learning objectives, providing clear guidance to students, maintaining resource quality, and respecting data privacy. The following practices will help you make the most of public resources integrated via LTI in your courses.

Aligning Resources with Learning Objectives

Perhaps the most critical step is ensuring that the public resources you integrate directly support your course's learning objectives. Don't simply add resources because they are free or readily available.

Instead, ask yourself: How does this resource help students achieve specific learning outcomes?

If the connection isn't clear, the resource may be a distraction rather than an asset. Consider these points when aligning resources:

• Relevance: The resource should directly address the topics covered in your course.
• Scope: The level of detail and complexity should match the students' current understanding and the course's overall goals.
• Learning Activities: Think about how students will interact with the resource. Will they read articles, watch videos, complete exercises, or participate in discussions?

Providing Clear Instructions to Students

Once you've integrated a public resource via LTI, don't assume students will automatically know how to use it effectively. Clear and concise instructions are essential.

This involves more than just providing a link; it requires explaining the resource's purpose, how it fits into the course, and how students should engage with it.

Consider the following elements for clear instructions:

• Context: Explain why the resource is being used and how it relates to the current topic.
• Access: Provide step-by-step instructions on how to access the resource within the LMS.
• Activities: Clearly outline any specific activities or assignments related to the resource. What are students expected to do with the information?
• Assessment: Explain how the resource will be assessed, if at all. Will there be quizzes, discussions, or projects based on the material?

By providing clear and comprehensive instructions, you can help students make the most of the integrated public resource and achieve the desired learning outcomes.

Regularly Reviewing and Updating Resources

The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and public resources are no exception.

It's crucial to regularly review and update the resources you've integrated via LTI to ensure they remain relevant, accurate, and effective.

Stale or outdated resources can negatively impact the learning experience and undermine the credibility of your course.

Here's what to consider when reviewing and updating resources:

• Accuracy: Verify that the information presented is still accurate and up-to-date.
• Relevance: Ensure the resource continues to align with your learning objectives and course content.
• Broken Links: Check for any broken links or accessibility issues.
• Newer Versions: Look for newer versions or updated editions of the resource.
• Student Feedback: Solicit feedback from students on the resource's usefulness and effectiveness.

By making regular reviews and updates a part of your workflow, you can ensure that your integrated public resources remain valuable assets to your course.

Being Mindful of Data Privacy

Integrating public resources via LTI involves sharing some student data with the external tool provider.

It's essential to understand what data is being shared, how it's being used, and what steps you can take to protect student privacy.

Before integrating any public resource, carefully review the provider's privacy policy and terms of service. Look for information about:

• Data Collection: What types of data are collected (e.g., name, email address, grades, activity logs)?
• Data Usage: How is the data used (e.g., for personalization, analytics, or marketing)?
• Data Sharing: Is the data shared with third parties?
• Data Security: What security measures are in place to protect the data?
• Compliance: Does the provider comply with relevant data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, FERPA)?

Communicate privacy information to your students. Consider adding a statement in your syllabus or course materials explaining what data will be shared with the external tool and why.

By being proactive about data privacy, you can build trust with your students and ensure that their data is handled responsibly.

Video: Master Public Resources LTI: A Step-by-Step Guide

Play Video