Moodle 2.8 is expected to ship in mid-November. The next release will focus on improving the Gradebook (one area where Moodle can use some consistency). The Gradebook has seen some improvements but with 2.8 should become a fully functioning feature. 2.8 will focus on bringing many improvements. Let’s take a look at a few.
New Grader Report.
The new Grader report will utilize the whole window for presentation. This will increase the amount of information available. This follows the improvement of being able to always view columns (student names). The new Grader will also provide smooth scrolling in all directions (Yea!). Additionally, all platforms will be supported, including tablets and phones. Since the world is really going mobile, this is a welcome focus. “Single view” mode will allow editing of any row or column on its own. A big, Hallelujah on this one. This will be very handy for actually entering grades.
New Natural weighting aggregation method
This will allow for grades to be combined simply. It also will provide a “clearer interface for using weights”. I’m a bit less excited about this one. Weighting of grades is something that seems to be confusing for many teachers. This is one of the areas that could truly use improvement for some teachers. Many teachers understand weights and use them well. However, in my experience, far too many don’t really, truly understand how weighting works.
Improved Grader setup page
There will be a new design with easier terminology and clearer layout. Making things clear and easy to understand is always a good thing. Too many times there is circular logic in the explanation or definitions in Moodle.
Improved Grade import/export
This falls into the nice, but not an earth shaker for me. I’ve exported the grades as .CSV files. That is a pretty robust and useful format.
Other improvements
Several other improvements are on the way. Forum module will have a reply by email feature. Assignment module will have an option to add additional files. Choice module will allow for more than one choice to be made. Database will add fields that can be marked as required. Quiz will get additional completion options. (Completion is a powerful tool within Moodle that is frequently overlooked.) Lesson module will allow for introductions.
My thoughts
Moodle keeps getting better and better. It is the most powerful of the LMS’s that I’ve used. The modularity of Moodle is a real strength. However, it is not always the prettiest belle at the ball. Indeed, sometimes it can be downright ugly. One of the groups that I worked with was ready to get rid of Moodle because it looked so “dated”. The teachers were sure that the students wouldn’t use it because of the look. I quickly tweaked a few things (theme change, reorganize to 2 columns over the standard 3 column, and some color changes) and the teachers were ecstatic. They now love the “look and feel” of the site.
This leads me to believe that Moodle really should address the overall design philosophy of the program. Well, that experience and working with many, many other teachers. Creating an exciting, easy to use experience could help propel Moodle even further. Yes, I’m am aware that there are many themes out there. However, the default look and feel is still a very powerful undercurrent for the program.
Overall, I’m excited about using Moodle and where it is going. It is a truly powerful tool that is on a great track for educators.
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