Moodle

 

http://moodle.boone.kyschools.us

Let me guess, you have one application for your web site, another for your grades, multiple applications to create assignments and don’t forget your email for communication.  In today’s age of technology it is possible that you spend more time using your computer and updating technology than you do teaching your students.  Wouldn’t it be nice to have a management system designed specifically to help educators?  Wait a minute, now you are thinking, how can I afford a management system on a teacher’s salary and with budget cuts there is no way the district is going to pay for such a priceless resource.

To answer your question…It’s Simple, It’s Free, It’s Moodle.

Ok, now that I have your attention, let me tell you what Moodle can do for you. 

· Moodle is a course management system (CMS) designed specifically for educators 

· Moodle promotes collaboration and communication

· Moodle has modules for creating websites, quizzes, assignments, glossaries, wiki’s, forums and your grade book all on one website

· Moodle is suitable for supplementing your face to face classes as well as 100% online courses

It all starts with a teacher website designed by Moodle, so let’s get started.  For those of you in Boone County, all the basic information you need has already been downloaded to the county server (For the rest of you I recommend meeting with your tech coordinator), so it’s time to create your profile.   

Here’s How:  Once you access the website click “Login” in the upper right hand corner.  The Login Screen will appear, type in your user name and password, the same as you use to log into your school computer, then click “Login”.  Since this is your first time logging in you will have to update your profile, this part is self explanatory, just fill in the fields with your name, email and description.  Your description should include where and what you teach along with anything else you choose.  After entering all of your information be sure to click “Update Profile” at the bottom of the page. 

The next step is to change your settings.   Make sure you are logged in and then you will need to Turn Editing “On”.   Next click on “Settings” which is located on the left side of the page under the heading Administration, once you are on the “Settings” screen you will be able to update the General section.  This is where you can choose the Theme of your site, the Format, as well as the Course Name and Summary.  This section is also self explanatory, just fill in the blank fields as you go.  When all of your changes have been made, be sure to click “Save Changes” at the bottom of the page.  Of course you still have a lot of work to do to customize your website, add assignments, and create items such as your blog, however at this point you have the basic site up and running.  Where you take your site from here is up to you.