ITRC

Instructional Technology Resource Center

Resources: Frequently Asked Questions

Top 10 Questions

1) What the heck is Moodle?

Moodle is a learning management system (LMS) selected to help faculty distribute content, create assessment activities, and communicate with students online. Moodle will replace the WebCT LMS environment in the summer of 2008.

2) How do I sign up for a Moodle workshop? What workshops will be given?

To see a workshop schedule and sign up for a workshop, navigate to the ITRC Calendar. You can also sign up for a workshop by contacting the ITRC. Email itrcstaf@isu.edu or call 282-5880 to set up a time. Remember that "walk-ins" are welcome if space is available.

3) How do I gain access to my courses in Moodle?

Courses are automatically created each semester. If you are listed as the instructor of the course you will have access to the course automatically. If you do not have access to a course contact the ITRC.

4) Can students change their own passwords?

Yes, students can change their own passwords in MyISU. The login username and password used are the same as ISU Webmail.

5) How do I add an individual non-registered student to my Moodle Course? How do I add a group of non-registered students?

To add one or more non-registered students to a Moodle course, contact the ITRC at itrcstaf@isu.edu or 282-5880.

6) How do I request a single Moodle course for multiple sections?

If you would like to have one single course for multiple sections, please request multi section course (also known as a meta course) by filling out the request form.

7) I cannot login to Moodle due to a wrong user name and/or password, what can I do?

Moodle access is linked to your ISU Webmail (LDAP) login. Please remember that usernames and passwords are case sensitive. If your password is incorrect, contact the ISU Help desk at (208) 282-4585. The Help Desk can re-issue new passwords.

8) Where do I find support and training resources for Moodle?

Moodle support and training resources are located on the Moodle ISU website and on the ITRC website.

9) How do I request a course for a semester not listed on my Moodle page?

You may request courses for a new semester offering not listed on the Moodle site by filling out the request form.

10) How do my students gain access to my Moodle course?

Students will login using their email username and password. Faculty will need to make the course visible to the students in the Moodle Administrative settings of the course at the beginning of each semester. A document describing this process can be accessed from the ITRC website (http://www.isu.edu/itrc) in the handouts section under "Making Your Moodle Course Available to Students"

Microsoft Power Point

What is Power Point and can I use it in my Moodle course?

Power Point provides a complete set of tools for creating powerful presentations. Organize and format your material easily, illustrate your points with your own images or clip art, and even broadcast your presentations over the Web through Moodle.

Where do I find more information on Power Point?

For more details on using Power Point, visit the ITRC tutorials page or the "Bit Better" Power Point FAQ.

HTML

What is HTML?

HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) is the set of "markup" symbols or codes inserted in a file intended for display on a World Wide Web browser. The markup tells the Web browser how to display a Web page's words and images for the user. The individual markup codes are referred to as elements or tags.

Where do I find more information on HTML?

For more details on using HTML, visit the ITRC web development resource page or HTML Writers Guild FAQ.

Miscellaneous

Where is the ITRC located?

The ITRC is located in Room B17 on the lower level of the Eli M. Oboler Library.

Who can use the ITRC facility?

Any faculty member and/or individuals assisting a faculty member developing instructional materials.

Who funded this facility?

Partial funding came from the "Bridging the Chasm" Grant (a SBOE grant) and other funding from the Academic Vice President's office (Dr. Jonathan Lawson).

What types of resources are available from this facility?

1) ITRC Production Lab - provides you with the latest in computer hardware and software technology to produce your instructional material.
2) ITRC Training Lab - offers a wide variety of workshops to enhance your technical skills.
3) ITRC Web Site - excellent resource for faculty on the run. It provides convenient online information and solutions regarding instructional technology.
4) Equipment Checkout - equipment such as LCD Projectors and Digital Cameras can be checked out by instructors for educational use.
5) Other Resources - access to all the services of the ISU Media/Distance Learning Center including Print Media, Distance Learning classrooms and the Education Access Channel on TCI Cable - Connections Channel 4.

How can I get individual assistance with a project?

The ITRC staff is available for individual consulting during regular business hours. Email itrc@isu.edu or call 282-5880 to request an appointment.

How do I reserve a seat in a workshop? What workshops will be given?

You can stop by the ITRC, email itrcstaf@isu.edu or call 282-5880 to set up a time. Remember that "walk-ins" are welcome if space is available. To sign up or view a workshop schedule, go to the ITRC Calendar.

What are the hours of the ITRC facility?

Our office hours are 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday through Friday during Fall and Spring semesters. Summer hours are 7:30 AM to 5 PM Monday through Thursday, 7:30 AM through 4 PM on Fridays

What software and hardware are available for use?

Software:Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Dreamweaver, Flash, Fireworks and many more instructional applications.
Hardware: Windows Pentium 4 2.6 Ghz computers, one iMac computer, color scanners, DVD/CD-ROM recorders, color and b&w printers and drawing tablets.