Moodle Mobile Launched

PageOne has developed an open source Moodle interface module called MoodleMobile, to allow Moodle VLE users access to the JANET txt messaging service.

13/6/08: MoodleMobile is an add-on module created for the Moodle Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Created in conjunction with Kidderminster College, it allows its users to send and receive text messages directly within Moodle using PageOne’s JANET txt messaging service.

MoodleMobile will be free to download and users will be able to use their Janet txt messaging bundle with the module.

Extending communications in the VLE to include SMS messaging enhances user experience and increases the likelihood of learning success. Users don't have to copy or re-enter their contact list into another system, and no additional login is required. Users simply select a message recipient from their existing contact list, enter the message, and click ‘send’. Messages can be sent to as many or as few people as required, as well as allowing users to select individual recipients from a list.

Messages that are often repeated can also be defined as a ‘message template’, allowing users to quickly and easily send messages that are both relevant and standardised. A user can also define their own ‘message signature’, which may contain, personal contact information, which can be added to the end of each message sent. This allows the user to quickly add useful information to a message, without having to look it up or enter it manually.

Features at a glance:
• Send SMS text messages
• Send email including attachments
• Send a combination of both email and SMS simultaneously
• View full message history
• Message templates
• Character count
In addition, administrators will be able to:
• Define who has the ability to send messages, based on Moodle's role system.
• View the available credit left on the account
• Define what to use for a users mobile number
• Outgoing messages can use the system default settings or be assigned on a per user basis

First stage evaluation
Sixteen institutations were selected to take part in the first stage evaluation version. Feedback has been good and the beta version is now available to all institutions wishing to take part. A two way version will be available in the coming weeks. For more information on how to download this plugin, email: janettxt@pageone.co.uk

Customer requirements for integration and set up
The following will be required:
• Moodle 1.8+
• PHP 4 or 5
• DOMXML and Curl extensions (typical installations will have these installed already)
• A PageOne Janet txt account