Blackboard is a proprietary learning management system used extensively in the higher education environment during the 2000s. According to the Online Dictionary of Library and Information Science, a "learning management systems" or LMS is "an integrated set of online applications providing access to course assignments and materials, tests and test results, e-discussion and chat space, and other features in support of education, particularly in colleges and universities." (http://www.abc-clio.com/ODLIS/odlis_l.aspx)