Using Moodle
This class will be using MOODLE, a software e-learning platform
(also known as a Course Management System (CMS), or
Learning Management Systems (LMS), or Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)).
The word Moodle is actually an acronym for
Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment,
although originally the M stood for "Martin", named after
Martin Dougiamas, the original developer.
Moodle Class Access
To access your Moodle class(es), log into Pipeline, choose the classes tab, and then choose the class Moodle link. All of your class lectures, assignments, quizzes are located within Moodle.
Optional Settings Tips
Profile
Among the many other options in the Edit Profile window, you can
Choose not to auto-subscribe to forums (choose not to have forum postings e-mailed to you).
If you want to keep the default auto-subscription, there are options for how you want to receive those e-mails.
You can upload a photo or graphic, which will display with your name in discussion postings and other assignments.
You can opt to provide other contact information, such as web address, AIM, ICQ, etc.
Home Page Views
The default view in the home page is to present a persistent block at the top of the middle column, and then the weeks’ blocks cascade down the column below.
During the first week of class, you’ll only see the persistent block and the block for Week 1. However, as each week is revealed during the semester, the current week will be at the bottom of the page.
After a few weeks, a lot of scrolling is required to navigate to the current week’s block. You can hide all but the current week by clicking the rectangle icon at the top-right corner of the current week’s block.
However, you can use the Section Links, located at the top of the first column, to jump to the current week.
Alternatively, you can hide all but the current week by clicking the rectangle icon at the top-right corner of the current week's block. In this collapsed view, you can also use the Section Links to replace the single visible block with a different week. (You'll want to do this every Monday morning when the "current" week changes to the next
week—Moodle doesn't change it for you.)
Collapse Weeks
If you ever want to view all of the weeks again, click the double rectangle icon, which expand the view again.
Expand Weeks
The mini-blocks in the left and right columns can also be minimized (collapsed down to the heading) by clicking on the minus sign icon. To expand it again, just click the plus sign icon.
Calendar
You can add your own events and reminders to the calendar on the home page. Click New Event in the Upcoming Events block in the right column of the home page. Fill out the form as prompted.
Moodle Resources
Moodle Student Guide (pdf). Read through it to become familiar with Moodle.
Page 5 will instruct you how to sign in to Moodle. You might also want to checkout the Moodle Demo Site for Students.
At the bottom of each page you will find Moodle Docs for this page button which will give you HELP for that page.