OpenOLAT

Self-Hosted

Open-source Learning Management System (LMS) for institutions and corporate training

Overview

OpenOLAT is an open-source Learning Management System (LMS) designed for educational institutions and corporate training programs. It supports course creation, interactive learning modules (quizzes, assignments), collaboration tools (forums, wikis), and compliance with e-learning standards like SCORM and xAPI. Deployable via Docker or on-premises servers, it offers role-based access control (students, instructors, admins), customizable dashboards, and integration with LDAP/OAuth. Ideal for blended learning, online courses, and professional development, it prioritizes scalability and user privacy through self-hosting options.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  openolat:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: openolat
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Comprehensive course management with SCORM/xAPI support
Interactive assessment tools (quizzes, assignments, rubrics)
Collaboration features (forums, wikis, group workspaces)
Role-based access control and customizable dashboards

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is OpenOLAT hard to install?

OpenOLAT can be installed via Docker (simpler for containerization users) or traditional on-premises setup (requires Java, PostgreSQL, and web server config). Documentation is comprehensive, but basic technical knowledge (server/Docker) is helpful for smooth deployment.

? Is it a good alternative to Canvas or Blackboard?

Yes—OpenOLAT offers core LMS features like course management, assessments, and collaboration similar to Canvas/Blackboard. As open-source, it allows full customization and self-hosting (unlike some proprietary options), making it ideal for institutions prioritizing control and cost savings.

? Is it completely free?

Yes—OpenOLAT is licensed under GNU GPLv3, so it’s free to download, use, modify, and distribute. No licensing fees apply, though hosting/maintenance costs may exist depending on deployment choice.

Top Alternatives

Canvas LMS (proprietary) Search Google

Blackboard Learn (proprietary) Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category Learning and Courses

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Open-source (free to use and modify)
⊕ Privacy-focused (self-hosted option)
⊕ Compliant with major e-learning standards

Cons

⊖ Requires technical setup (Docker/server knowledge)
⊖ Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
⊖ Limited third-party integrations compared to proprietary LMS