Resources (BLC)

1.Book

The book module enables a teacher to create a multi-page resource in a book-like format, with chapters and subchapters. Books can contain media files as well as text and are useful for displaying lengthy passages of information which can be broken down into sections.

A book may be used

• To display reading material for individual modules of study
• As a staff departmental handbook
• As a showcase portfolio of student work

2.File

The file module enables a teacher to provide a file as a course resource. Where possible, the file will be displayed within the course interface; otherwise students will be prompted to download it. The file may include supporting files, for example an HTML page may have embedded images.

Note that students need to have the appropriate software on their computers in order to open the file.

A file may be used

• To share presentations given in class
• To include a mini website as a course resource
• To provide draft files of software programs so students can edit and submit them for assessment

3.Folder

The folder module enables a teacher to display a number of related files inside a single folder, reducing scrolling on the course page. A zipped folder may be uploaded and unzipped for display, or an empty folder created and files uploaded into it.

A folder may be used

• For a series of files on one topic, for example a set of past examination papers in pdf format or a collection of image files for use in student projects
• To provide a shared uploading space for teachers on the course page (keeping the folder hidden so that only teachers can see it)

4.IMS content package

An IMS content package is a collection of files which are packaged according to an agreed standard so they can be reused in different systems. The IMS content package module enables such content packages to be uploaded as a zip file and added to a course as a resource.

Content is usually displayed over several pages, with navigation between the pages. There are various options for displaying content in a pop-up window, with a navigation menu or buttons etc.

An IMS content package may be used for presenting multimedia content and animations.

5.Label

The label module enables text and multimedia to be inserted into the course page in between links to other resources and activities. Labels are very versatile and can help to improve the appearance of a course if used thoughtfully.

Labels may be used

• To split up a long list of activities with a subheading or an image
• To display an embedded sound file or video directly on the course page
• To add a short description to a course section

6.Page

The page module enables a teacher to create a web page resource using the text editor. A page can display text, images, sound, video, web links and embedded code, such as Google maps.

Advantages of using the page module rather than the file module include the resource being more accessible (for example to users of mobile devices) and easier to update.

For large amounts of content, it's recommended that a book is used rather than a page.

A page may be used

• To present the terms and conditions of a course or a summary of the course syllabus
• To embed several videos or sound files together with some explanatory text

7.URL

The URL module enables a teacher to provide a web link as a course resource. Anything that is freely available online, such as documents or images, can be linked to; the URL doesn’t have to be the home page of a website. The URL of a particular web page may be copied and pasted or a teacher can use the file picker and choose a link from a repository such as Flickr, YouTube or Wikimedia (depending upon which repositories are enabled for the site).

There are a number of display options for the URL, such as embedded or opening in a new window and advanced options for passing information, such as a student's name, to the URL if required.

Note that URLs can also be added to any other resource or activity type through the text editor.