Once you start using Grasple, you might find that it is more convenient to have an integration with the platform and your Learn Management System (LMS). For practicing with Grasple, we offer two solutions: LTI (Learning Tools Interoperability) and SURFConext (SSO: Single Sign On). This article will elaborate on the similarities and differences between an SSO and LTI integration.
Important note: SURFConext is only available for Dutch institutions
What do they have in common?
Both an LTI as well as an SSO integration allows the use of institution accounts to log in to Grasple. This means that creating a new account is not necessary to access your material in the platform. In short: one less password to remember for yourself and your students!
What is the added value of LTI compared to SSO?
an LTI integration has a wider set of functionalities compared to an SSO integration. LTI uses a method that we refer to as “deep linking”. This allows for the following advantages:
LTI allows you to connect your course in Grasple to your course in your LMS (e.g. Canvas, Brightspace, Moodle etc.). Students and teachers can therefore use the platform within the LMS and do not have to navigate to the Grasple website to practice with your material.
LTI allows for an integration with the Gradebook of your LMS. This means that the grades achieved in Grasple can be synchronized with the results section in your course in your LMS.
For Brightspace users: the deep linking allows you to transfer groups from your LMS (Brightspace) to Grasple automatically. This means you do not have to add the groups manually or by using a CSV in your course Grasple.
Functionality | SSO | LTI |
Access via institution account | Yes | Yes |
Yes | Yes | |
Access via app.grasple.com | Yes | Yes |
Access via linked course in LMS | No | Yes |
Syncing test results with your Gradebook | No | Yes |
No | Yes |
If you want to read the full extent of options of an LMS/LTI integration, we advise you to navigate to the articles on this page.
What should I consider when choosing LTI or SSO?
First of all, it is important to note that both integrations can be used together. A combination will only enhance the experience of using our platform. However, if you have to make a choice, we advise you to ask yourself the following questions:
To start, you should consider why you want an LTI or SSO integration. The reasons behind your wish may help determine what integration fits best to help you improve your teaching experience and the accessibility of your course(s) for students.
Secondly, it is important to talk to your IT department and see what integration options they support.
A last consideration involves talking to your colleagues that also use Grasple: an integration will become institution-wide available, so it might be insightful to talk to your peers and see if you can align your wishes!
If you are in doubt about using an integration, do not hesitate to reach out to our support team! They are more than happy to answer your questions and help you find the right solution.