The document discusses different ways that Moodle tools can be combined to create effective course sequences. It identifies three main types of sequencing:
1) One-to-many sequencing, where one learning concept is supported by multiple activities targeting different skills.
2) Linear, instructor-led sequencing where resources and activities build upon each other in a defined order.
3) Linear, student-led sequencing where students define the content within a provided framework of activity sequences.
The document encourages reworking example course topics to incorporate these three sequencing approaches and emphasizes that the most engaging courses allow students more control through Type 3 sequencing.
2. How Moodle was designed to be used
"The heart of Moodle is courses that contain
activities and resources. There are about 20
different types of activities available. The main
power of this activity-based model comes in
combining the activities into sequences and
groups, which can help you guide participants
through learning paths. Thus, each activity can
build on the outcomes of previous ones.”
Source: http://docs.moodle.org/25/en/Pedagogy
3. How Moodle is often used
Image Creative Commons licensed thx to http://www.flickr.com/photos/tim_ellis/
4. What makes a good Moodle course?
Full presentation @ http://www.slideshare.net/mark.drechsler/moodle-course-design
2010 Slideshare presentation
53,000 hits
Around 1000 per week in 2013
5. What This Session Is
An attempt to reshape a
‘dump and pump’ course
into something where
students can engage,
construct and self-direct.
6. What This Session Isn’t
(Making things look pretty is sadly not my forte)
11. A lot of the time sequences are:
• Strictly defined in terms of content
• Instructor led
• Driving towards a fixed assessment
• Anyone done a MOOC lately? Bingo.
• Enter our demo course: Ukulele 101
15. Type 1
One-to-many sequencing
• One piece of content/learning concept
• Multiple activities targeting different skills
• Replace/augment quizzes & assignments
• Not even really a sequence…
18. Hint: Action words for Moodle tools
• Choice: Select, Pick, Choose
• Forum: Discuss, Review, Debate, Reflect
• Glossary: Define, Describe, List
• Wiki: Construct, Collaborate, Develop
• Workshop: Review, Assess, Reflect
• Database: Share, Upload, Complete, Review
(This list isn’t exhaustive! Third party tools?)
19. Type 2
Linear sequencing – instructor led
• Multiple pieces of content/learning concepts
• Sequences of resources & activities that build
on each other
• Instructor defines content & sequences
• Still ‘controlled’, but sequencing aims to build
on knowledge during sequence
22. Type 3
Linear sequencing – student led
• One seed of content/learning concept
• Sequences of activities only that build on each
other
• Instructor defines sequences, students define
content
25. Final words
• There is no such thing as the ‘perfect’ Moodle
course for all purposes.
• The best courses are the ones that meet the
needs of the learner, but….
• …the most interesting ones I’ve seen make
good use of Type 3 sequencing.