If you're working with Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) or are interested in it, you'll often come across terms and concepts that might be new to you. Understanding these terms is crucial for navigating, implementing, and selecting LTI providers and platforms. This terminology forms the foundation of your LTI knowledge.
We’ve compiled the most important LTI terms and their explanations in one place. Looking for a specific term? Use CTRL + F on your keyboard, type in the term, and find exactly what you need. Don’t forget to bookmark this blog for future reference!
Want to learn more about LTI first? Check out our blog, "What is LTI and What Are Its Benefits?"
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The IMS Global Learning Consortium, now known as 1EdTech, is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting open standards for education and learning technologies. They created Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI), a standard that enables seamless integration between learning platforms (like LMSs) and external tools. By developing standardized specifications such as LTI, SCORM, and other interoperability protocols, 1EdTech ensures that educational institutions and organizations can easily combine technologies to create flexible and scalable learning experiences. Their mission is to accelerate innovation in education through collaboration and technical standards.
For all official LTI documentation, visit the 1EdTech website.
LTI Version
Different versions of the LTI standard, such as LTI 1.1, LTI 1.3, and LTI Advantage, offer varying features and security levels. Knowing the right version is essential for compatibility and functionality.
OAuth
A security protocol used in LTI for authenticating and authorizing requests between the Tool Provider (e.g., Linqur) and the Tool Consumer (e.g., an LMS). It ensures data is exchanged securely and reliably.
Context ID
A unique identifier representing the "context" in which the LTI tool is used, such as a specific course or group within the LMS. This helps the Tool Provider understand the tool's environment.
Resource Link ID
A unique code referring to the specific spot within a course where the LTI tool is integrated. It helps the Tool Provider pinpoint where the tool is being used.
User ID
A unique identifier for the user accessing the LTI tool. This allows for personalized user experiences.
Roles and Permissions
Define what a user can see and do within an LTI tool. Common roles include Instructor, Student, and Administrator.
Outcome Service
A feature enabling the Tool Provider to send grades or results back to the LMS. This is useful for tools that report scores, like testing platforms.
LTI Advantage
An extension of LTI 1.3 with advanced services, including Deep Linking, Names and Roles Provisioning Services (NRPS), and Assignments and Grades Services (AGS). It provides a more robust, secure version of LTI.
1EdTech (formerly IMS Global)
The organization responsible for developing and maintaining the LTI standard. They offer tools and documentation to keep you updated on the latest specifications.
Single Sign-On (SSO)
A feature allowing users to access multiple applications, including LTI tools, with one set of login credentials. This simplifies and streamlines the login process.
Secret
A kind of password shared between the LMS and the LTI tool to enable secure communication. It ensures that messages between the two are trustworthy and protected.
Launch URL
The web address the LMS uses to start the external tool. When a user opens the tool in the LMS, the LMS sends a request to this URL with information about the user and course.
Registration URL
Used during the initial setup of an LTI tool with an LMS. It exchanges information like the shared secret and configuration data.
Cartridge URL
A URL pointing to standardized content, such as a Common Cartridge. This allows the LMS to import and use content like quizzes or modules.
Custom Properties
Extra parameters sent by the LMS to the tool during launch. These can include specific settings or course names.
Tool Provider
The external application or service integrated into a learning platform, like a quiz app, video platform, or interactive learning content. The Tool Provider offers functionality not available in the LMS.
Tool Consumer
Usually the LMS (e.g., Moodle or Canvas) where learning activities occur. The LMS initiates the LTI process by sending user and context information to the Tool Provider.
Platform
The broader digital learning environment where tools are used. This often refers to the LMS but can also include a wider ecosystem of integrated tools.
Deep Linking (LTI Deep Linking)
A feature allowing the Tool Provider to send direct links to specific content or activities back to the LMS. This enables instructors to easily include specific items, like a quiz or video, in their course without complicated steps.
Public Key
A key used to secure data exchange between the LMS and the Tool Provider. This is critical in modern LTI implementations like LTI 1.3.
Claims
Data sent in secure messages, such as user details or course information. These claims help the Tool Provider identify the right context and user.
AGS (Assignments and Grades Services)
Provides a standardized way to exchange grades and feedback between a tool and an LMS. It allows LTI tools to manage assignments and grades and send results back to the LMS.
NRPS (Names and Roles Provisioning Services)
Allows an LTI tool to access a list of participants (names and roles) in an LMS course. This is useful for tools that offer role-based functionality, such as instructor or student-specific features.
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Cas van Lier is our textual ace, in other words: our copywriter. He ensures that the essence of Linqur is conveyed as effectively as possible through fresh and convincing content. When Cas isn’t at the keyboard, he’s often found at the beach or in the woods with his girlfriend and dog.
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