Suggestions+for+Introducing+Moodle

=**Introducing Moodle** =

__** The following is a list of suggestions that we brainstormed on our face-to-face (Aug. 6th) session on how to introduce Moodle **__

 * Go over "Netiquette" rules & discuss
 * Discuss differences between discussion forum vs. chat rooms.
 * Mutual respect, no abbreviating, etc.
 * Time management - self motivation
 * Email links to Moodle and let students self-explore, etc., then discuss.
 * Talk from your own experience. Each teacher will use Moodle differently.
 * "Big Brother" aspect - teacher can view student participation, etc.
 * Can share with class or just with teacher - collaborative learning environment
 * Discuss application in college - students will probably be taking online courses when they enter college.
 * Discuss how assignments in Moodle will be graded.
 * Post and go over the syllabus.
 * Upload Word documents ("new window"), PDF files ("force download")
 * How do we instruct kids on how to participate in a Discussion - (Jing? Audacity?)
 * 1st day - use discussion to introduce yourself
 * If you are using a Wikie - discuss how to take part in a Wiki
 * Kids develop own "Netiquette" guidelines
 * Use folders to organize for students (Add a directory) on your Moodle page.
 * Provide tutorials on different concepts or for enrichment - also provide "extra help" links
 * How do you balance "paper and pencil" vs. online assessments?
 * Tell parents on parent's night.
 * Use Google Docs (post link)
 * In class, introduce Moodle with a projector and laptops with supporting paper documentation
 * When introducing a project, concept, etc. for the first time, demonstrate live.
 * Use Moodle page for students to access assignment
 * Each student will create his/her own blog.
 * K.I.S.S. method (Don't overwhelm them.)
 * How do the students access Moodle? Do we have to show them the log-in procedure?
 * Concerns:
 * Will we be able to help the students when they encounter problems?
 * Will it be overused (on-line discussion formats)?
 * What about the few students who do not have computers?
 * Students need a comination of class interaction/instruction wth the on-line enrichment/lessons
 * Student accountability needs to be maintained (on-line information cannot be an excuse for slacking off in class.
 * Moodle - used as enrichment