Before logging into Moodle

If you’re here, it’s because you’re either an instructor or a student using Moodle to teach or learn.
One important thing to understand before diving into how Moodle works is that each course has its own unique characteristics, which are closely tied to its objectives, content, users, and expected outcomes. That’s why course design doesn’t begin when you open Moodle—it starts well before, during the planning phase. Being clear about these elements from the beginning will help you make better use of Moodle’s tools and create a more effective learning experience.

If you are an instructor

Before you log into Moodle to build your course, it’s important to consider the following key aspects. This prior preparation will help you structure your course clearly, effectively, and in alignment with the learning objectives. Below is a basic guide divided into four essential sections: Objective, Content, Audience, and Outcomes.

What can you do as an instructor in Moodle?

As an instructor, you have access to tools that allow you to:

• Request the creation of courses.
• Edit the structure and content of the course.
• Upload materials (documents, videos, links, etc.).
• Delete or hide content as needed.
• Create and configure learning activities.
• Assess students and manage the gradebook.

What aspects should you define before designing your course in Moodle?

1. Objective
What is the course expected to achieve?

Having a clear objective is essential to guide the entire instructional design. This includes:

• General purpose: Defines the core reason for the course. What learning need does it address?
• Specific objectives: Describe what students should be able to do by the end of the course.
• Competencies to develop: Related to skills, knowledge, and attitudes.
• Course level: Is it introductory, intermediate, or advanced?

2. Content
What materials and activities will be included in the course?

• Course structure: Organize content by modules, units, or weeks.
• Instructional materials: Gather documents, presentations, videos, links, readings, etc.
• Learning activities: Design forums, assignments, quizzes, collaborative activities.
• Supplementary resources: Glossaries, question banks, external links.
• Schedule: Key dates for submissions, assessments, and course closure.

3. Audience
Who is the course intended for?

• Student profile: Age, education, prior experience, context.
• Prior knowledge: What should they know before starting?
• Specific needs: Accessibility, language, time availability.

4. Outcomes
How will you know if the course was successful?

• Learning outcomes: What students will know, do, or understand by the end.
• Assessment: Types of tools (rubrics, scales, tests), criteria, and weightings.
• Feedback: Opportunities for constructive comments.
• Progress tracking: Gradebook, activity reports, participation.

If you are a student

Before starting your course in Moodle, it’s important to consider a few key aspects that will help you stay organized, participate actively, and achieve good results. Here is a basic practical guide divided into four sections: Objective, Content, Participation, and Outcomes.

What can you do as a student in Moodle?

As a student, you can:

• Participate in activities such as forums, assignments, and quizzes.
• Check your activities, deadlines, and grades.
• Access course materials at any time.
• Interact with classmates and instructors through forums or messages.
• Receive feedback on your performance.

What should you consider in your first interaction with the course in Moodle?

1. Objective
What will you learn and why is it important?

• Read the course objectives carefully.
• Relate the content to your interests or academic goals.
• Set your own personal learning goals.

2. Content
What materials and activities will you find in the course?

• Explore the course structure.
• Review the study materials.
• Familiarize yourself with the activities.
• Check the schedule to manage your time.

3. Participation
How can you actively engage in the course?

• Participate in forums and activities.
• Communicate with your instructor or classmates.
• Check course announcements regularly.

4. Outcomes
How will you know if you are learning?

• Review the evaluation criteria.
• Read the feedback from your instructors.
• Track your grades and progress.
• Reflect on what you’ve learned.