Using Moodle in an Information Educational Environment of HEIs under Distance Learning

Abstract

The article dwells upon the problem of distance learning using the Moodle Learning Management System (LMS). Importantly, the article analyzes the use of LMS or virtual learning environments (VLE) at universities, designed to store learning materials, conduct automatic testing of students’ knowledge, support remote communication, generate information on progress and reports on working with distance learning courses. The most well-known paid systems (according to Google Trends service) include Blackboard Learning System, Edmodo, Glow, Ning, SharePoint LMS. At the same time, the most popular free LMS is Moodle, as evidenced by both the results of Google Trends statistics and the data obtained from the ListEdTech resource. The article determines the features of using this system in the professional training of pedagogy students. It describes the challenges (problems) faced by students when taking distance learning courses, the time frame of students’ work on this learning platform and students’ assessment of the quality of distance learning courses developed in the Moodle system. It shows that the use of this system saves time spent on training, freeing it up for personal life, self-education, hobbies and entertainment. Students with higher academic performance spend more time working in the Moodle system. Indeed, they intend to acquire knowledge, obtain a diploma of higher education and further pursue their professional careers. More than half of the respondents rate distance learning courses positively. In their opinion, such courses are creative, valuable, exciting, effective, clear, innovative, meeting expectations, unconventional, innovative, easy to learn and enjoyable.