Moodle Update
Moodle is the Learning Management System (LMS) that we have used since we started offering online courses, and it is one of the most popular platforms used by training provider and education institutions across the world.
As an open-source platform, it allows developers to add plugins and other features to enhance the standard provision provided by Moodle. It also means that the platform should be updated to the latest version every 1-2 years to maintain security and support.
So, what’s new?
Student Dashboard
Apart from the new landing page, students can quickly see other relevant information on their newly designed dashboard such as:
recent course activity
course badges
calendar with upcoming events
timeline with upcoming activities (for courses with set deadlines)
These will become available depending on the current course set up, and we will be looking to integrate more of these features across all of our courses based on student feedback.
Courses
Course pages now have a cleaner look, with more white space and updated resource icons so students can easily see whether they are clicking through to a lesson, viewing a PDF file, or accessing an assignment.
A new feature allows tutors to record themselves directly into a lesson activity to explain the activity, rather than just text. As with the dashboard features, this will be rolled out across the various courses over the next few months based on student feedback.
Turnitin Plugin
In line with all major education providers, MKLC Training will be integrating a Turnitin plugin that automatically checks submitted work for plagiarism. This feature requires students to think critically and take ownership of their own work, rather than copy and paste from a different web page.
Research has shown that if students apply theory to their own work and teaching experiences, they develop a greater understanding of the topic and are more likely to implement their learnings in real life. We have always encouraged this approach with MKLC students, and the Turnitin plugin is there to help guide students with their assignment submissions along with tutor feedback.