Artifact+Number+7

=ARTIFACT #7=

The Moodle Project
=EDTECH 700=
 * []**

Standard: Technical: Use Software and other tools appropriate to the task
A learning management system (LMS) is an important part of an online course. With the advancement of open source technology, featuring free distribution, and which includes the source code for easy modification by users, learning management systems have become user centered, offering easy development and implementation for educational use. Moodle is an open source learning management system. As part of my independent work in EDTECH 700, Learning Management Systems, I set up a Moodle site on my own server. I then organized the structure of the site, categorizing current and future distance education offerings within this Moodle site.
 * Project Description **

This project represented a major challenge for me as a distance education advocate. When I created this site, our institution only had one way to deliver online materials, Blackboard Web CT. This learning management system is robust, but required an extensive training period to learn. In addition, the students were often frustrated with the requirements of this platform, such as the need for a particular version of Java. When introduced to Moodle in an earlier course at SDSU (ED TECH 550), I was impressed with the ease of use, the intuitive feel of the platform and the ability to install on my own server. My project included setting up my server for Moodle, installing Moodle on my server, and then configuring Moodle for our use. The end product was a satisfying mode of online course delivery which is friendly to users and course creators alike. Challenges ** There were challenges involved in this project. When I began the process, I learned that my server did not allow for a PHP database. I found that I had to research servers to find one which offered this PHP database ability, eventually settling on an alternative server which was actually less expensive. In setting up Moodle, I had to learn how to create a data base, and to direct files on where to go within the program. After clearing these administrative hurdles, the rest was remarkably easy. Arranging courses into categories was easy, and this new structure provided a clear view into our future course offerings. Growth ** Prior to this project, I was frustrated with the options available for online course creation. Blackboard WebCT is primarily static (stand alone material which requires a substantial amount of time to update). In addition, it is difficult to learn and difficult for new users to understand. Moodle is a dynamic LMS. It includes content which is contained within the LMS system, content which is easily reused and refined and which can be repurposed for different courses. With Moodle, it is no longer necessary to spend time learning a difficult program which is also difficult for students to use as well. The layout allows for expansion of courses, not only within the categories, but also can include additional new categories if there is interest. As a result of this project, I was able to compile all of my offerings onto one location, making it more convenient for the students, and easier for other instructors to create lessons. In this respect, it allowed us to have a more clear direction for our distance education classes within San Diego Continuing Education.
 * Outcomes **

Saba, F. (2008//).// Learning Management Systems of the Future: A Theoretical Framework and Design. //Merlot Journal of Online Learning and Teaching, 4(2),// 158 - 168//.//