Moodle for High School Practical Use for Blended Learning In A 21st Century School By Desi J. Vuillaume Joseph Geiger What is Moodle? • Moodle is a course management system (CMS) • A free, Open Source software package designed using sound pedagogical principles • Designed to help educators create effective online learning communities • Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment Social Constructionist Pedagogy • Learners construct new knowledge as they interact with their environment • Learning is particularly effective when constructing something for others to experience • Collaboratively creating a small culture of shared artifacts with shared meanings • Connected and separate learning behaviors Tools Available in Moodle • • • • • • • • Discussion forums Grade book Dynamic content generation Blogs Wikis Quizzes Chat rooms POD Casts Other Facts About Moodle • Basic idea was started in the 1990’s by Martin Dougiamas • Documentations, manual, and active help forum are all available online. Log In Page Front Page of Class Quiz Page Forum Entry With Feedback Calendar Tool Students’ Perceptions • In what ways have you enjoyed using the online psychology class? – “It was simple to use and the facts on things were abundant.” – “I enjoy typing and using the class to learn more about psychology.” – “I like the online psychology environment because of the its flexibility.” Students’ Perceptions • What are the advantages of accessing psychology class with Moodle? – “Searching online for what you don’t understand and overall more engaging – “You get more information and any questions you have are pretty much answered.” – “I am a visual learner….the computer gets my attention more.” Teacher’s Perceptions • • • • Less paper shuffling Grading seems easier Students are more engaged in learning Lessons can be tailored to meet individual needs of students Who’s Using it? • • • • • • • University of Illinois Lewis University Trinity International University Barrington High School Stevenson High School Oak Park Elementary School Dist. #97 District 214 Arlington Heights