The left and right columns of the Moodle layout can be customized with different blocks. Each block can contain a different type of content.

Some of the most common blocks to use for class are Quickmail (for sending email messages to class participants), Library Resources (for links to major resources and quick searching), and the HTML block (for creating a custom block with links, images and text).

To Add a Block

  1. Turn editing on for the course.
  2. Scroll down to the bottom of the right column to the block labeled "Blocks".
  3. Select the block you want to add from the drop-down menu.

New blocks always appear just above the block used to add blocks. Use the up arrow to move the block up in the column, or use the left arrow to move a block to the left column.

Popular Block Types

Quickmail

Quickmail allows you to email an entire class or select students. This block has two options: Compose and History.

To send an email message:

  1. Click compose to send a message.
  2. Use the check boxes to determine who the message is sent to; use Select All to send to the entire class.
  3. Add your subject and message (and attachments if you want).

Copies of your messages will be saved in the History section of Quickmail.

Library Resources

There are several custom Library blocks available. The block labeled just "Library Resources" is a basic block that includes quick search options for the Library Catalog and Academic OneFile as well as links to additional resources and the Librarian contact page.

Other library blocks are subject-specific and include the same functionality described above as well as links to the major resources in that particular field. Subject-specific blocks are currently available for Art, Economics, History, Literature, Philosophy, and Psychology. To have additional Library Resources blocks created, contact any Reference Librarian. (Course-specific Library Resources blocks can be also be requested.)

HTML

The HTML block allows you to create unique blocks that contain text, links, and images. HTML blocks can be used for a variety of functions, from posting office hours to adding external links. This block type enables embedding video, sounds, Flash, and other files that can add unique elements to your course page.

Once you add this block to your course page, it will have the label (new HTML block).

  1. Click the Edit/Configuration icon to add content to the block.
  2. Enter a title for the block or leave it blank to hide the title.
  3. Use the text box to add content for the block. The editing tool bar allows you to alter the look of the block.

Remote RSS Feeds

The Remote RSS Feeds block enables RSS feeds from external Web sites to be displayed within Moodle. As the information on the other site (for example, news headlines or recently added documents) is changed, the block will update to show the latest information.

To add and configure an RSS feeds block:

  1. Add the block using the "Blocks" drop-down.
  2. Click the Edit/configuration icon.
  3. Add feed(s) using the "Manage all my feeds" tab.
  4. Determine how feeds display using the "Configure this block" tab.