E-infrastructure

5. Learning and collaboration platforms

E-learning and digital collaboration platforms are central tools for planning, delivering and evaluating teaching. Systems such as Moodle enable content organisation, communication, assessment and learning analytics, while the integration of external services is increasingly used to enhance collaborative environments. Collaborative learning shared problem-solving and real-time discussions are important elements of digital educational practice.

Examples of domestic systems that successfully use Moodle LMS as a foundation are Loomen which is maintained by CARNET and Merlin maintained by Srce. Loomen is an online e-learning platform intended for schools, colleges and other educational institutions, enabling the creation of courses, knowledge testing, assignment and control of obligations, attendance records and communication between participants. It works completely online, is adapted to all devices and takes advantage of the modularity and openness of solutions such as Moodle LMS.

On the other hand, Merlin is more widely used by higher education institutions in Croatia. It is connected to the Higher Education Information System (ISVU), enables automatic course creation and user enrollment, and uses the AAI@EduHr electronic identity for login. Merlin has an integrated e-portfolio system as well as webinar tools.

These systems enable not only the organisation of materials and communication, but also active collaborative learning, through forums, shared files, group assignments and interactive tools. This encourages the creation of a learning community, intensive knowledge exchange and support among students, and provides teachers with reliable mechanisms for evaluating and monitoring student progress.

Example: Using the BigBlueButton system within the Moodle environment enables video conferencing, lecture recording, screen sharing and small group work through so-called 'breakout rooms'. Students participate in lectures and consultations from remote locations, and the recordings remain available for later analysis and learning.