Folder Module - Sharing a Directory of Course Files
The Folder module makes it easy for instructors to share files with learners, as multiple files can be uploaded at once, providing convenient access. When a Folder is embedded on the main course page and the contents are arranged sequentially, they can be seamlessly integrated into the course content. Thumbnails (small preview images of files) are used to display folder contents. Many files can be embedded in a relatively small area on the course homepage, minimizing scrolling. In addition, using multiple Folder modules on a course homepage or subfolders within a Folder allows files to be grouped logically.
Although there are options for where a Folder will be displayed (i.e., embedded on the course homepage or on a separate page), there are no options for how the folder contents will be displayed. Typically, these items are downloaded to the learner's computer and opened using the default application associated with the file type. The disadvantage is that the instructor cannot control how learners interact with the content. However, the Activity reports track learner access to individual files within a directory.
Using the Folder Module to Support Blended Learning
Instructors can use this function to provide learners with access to digital media files not available elsewhere on the internet. For example, audio and video files that they have used in class can be uploaded to the courseware and shared with learners. Instructors recording their own audio and video with a smartphone or tablet can share these with learners using this feature.
PowerPoint presentations used in class, rubrics for grading assignments, and spreadsheets can also be shared with learners using the Folder module. This flexible feature can be used to bring many types of activities from face-to-face classrooms into the courseware.
Exemplar
There is a Folder resource in the Stage 2/3 Exemplar Course. It is called the Sample Folder - Assessment Documents and is located in the Sample Stage 3 Activities and Resources section.
Adding a Folder to the Course
Before starting this process, ensure that the documents to be included in the folder are in compressed (ZIP) format. If you are unfamiliar with compressing files using ZIP, upload files one at a time or refer to the WikiHow article: How to Make a Zip File.
1. At the top of the Course Homepage, click on the Edit mode toggle button in the upper right corner of the screen to activate the editing tools.
Note: The toggle moves to the right, indicating that course editing is now on.
2. Hover your cursor over the dotted line between two activities. The Add an activity or resource button (plus icon) appears.
3. Click on this icon.
4. A drop-down menu appears, choose the Activity or resource link.
5. The Add a new activity or resource pop-up appears. Select the Folder icon.
6. In the General section, type a brief, descriptive name for the Folder. This name will be used as the link to the folder.
7. Type a description of the Folder being added to the course.
Note: Files can be uploaded in the Content area below.
9. The compressed folder appears in the Files area. Click on this file name.
10. The Edit window appears with options to edit the file. Click the Unzip button.
The file unzips (decompresses), and the individual files appear.
11. In the Display folder contents section, choose the On a separate page option to limit the size of the Folder link on the course homepage and to open its contents on another page.
12. Click Save and return to course to see add the file.
13. On the main course page, the folder appears as shown below. Click on this link.
14. The folder appears on a new screen with a Download folder button and a list of all files. Click on the Edit button.
15. In the activity menu, click on the Settings option.
16. To show the folder expanded on the course main page, scroll downwards and choose the Display folder contents
setting Inline on a course page.
17. Click on the Save and Display button.
Note: The folder will appear with all of its files on the course main page.
Note: To display the Folder normally on the course main page, change the Display folder contents to On a separate page.
Delete the ZIP (or Any Other) File
1. Ensure that Edit mode is on. Open the Folder in your course.
2. In the activity menu, click on the Settings option.
3. Click on the ZIP file or any file you want to delete.
4. A window appears with options to edit the selected file. Click the Delete button.
5. Click Yes to confirm deletion of the file.
6. To remove multiple files, select the checkboxes next to the files you want to delete.
7. Click on the Delete icon.
8. Click Yes to confirm the deletion.
9. Click the Save and return to the course button.
The folder is displayed on the course page.
Video Resources
Resources