Target
Audience
ESL/EFL teachers of students at all levels of English and computer
proficiency. Teachers are expected to have a basic familiarity
with email and the internet and a desire to learn a new tech tool. This
course will help you to get started using the basic Moodle
features. No previous knowledge of Moodle is necessary.
Content
Description
Moodle is an open-source course management system that is free and easy
for teachers and students to use. Once installed, it allows ESL
teachers to design powerful web-based learning materials. Moodle
can be used to create anything from a simple bulletin board to a full
distance learning program. Moodle is a flexible tool that can be
adapted to a variety of educational settings: distance learning
programs, blended learning classes, IEP programs, VESL programs,
classes for working professionals, and more.
In order to learn how to use Moodle as an effective teaching tool,
participants will take part in a fully online Moodle course, allowing
them to discover Moodle’s resources and create their own activity
modules. They will also participate in the forums to discuss the how
and why of using an online course management system with both online
and onground classes.
Week by Week
Outline
Week I -
Getting to Know Moodle
After a brief introduction Moodle and the discussion forums,
participants will practice posting and replying to others using the
built-in editing tools. Participants will also learn to change
their Moodle profiles and upload their pictures.
Week II
- Ways of using Moodle with Different Populations (VESL, blended,
content, discussion only, totally online)
What are the benefits of online learning, or adding an online component
to an on-ground class? Participants will learn about some of the
ways Moodle can be adapted to fit different teaching situations.
Week III
- Moodle Activity Modules—How to use them
There are several activity modules included with a standard Moodle
installation, and more can be added as desired. This week,
participants will learn about some of the Moodle activity modules that
are most relevant to language learning.
Week IV
- Quizzes in Moodle
Teacher can create quizzes and exercises with Moodle’s own quiz
program, or import files from Hot Potatoes. Participants will
learn to use both tools and discuss the pros and cons of each.
Week V -
Grade Book
The grade book tool allows teachers to keep track of grades for both
online and offline assignments. Students can view their grades
privately at the Moodle course site. This contributes to
self-directed learning.
Week VI
- Wrap Up and Final Project
Students design their own Moodle courses and post their outlines.
Discuss each other’s classes. Evaluation sheet. Dealing
with glitches.
Communication
Media
Webpage and Moodle-based group
Jaime Linehan Smith is the Online Program
Coordinator for the Studies in American Language Program at San Jose
State University. She has been
teaching ESL since 1997, and online since 1999.
Sarah McGregor is Program Coordinator of
Studies in American Language at
San Jose State University, San Jose, California where she works with
diverse international learner populations--students, professionals and
immigrants.
To join this group
go to http://sal.sjsu.edu/evo
and
follow the directions provided there.
