Moodle has an extension aimed at language learning called poodll. Faculty can create assignments with video and audio components, Wordcards and Speechcards, and other, language-focused, activities.
In the test course where I explored poodll, I worked through several assignments. One assignment was called “Self Introduction (audio only).” By clicking on the microphone icon, I was able to record audio. I could also click the “play” button to listen to my recording. This submission, once saved, was submitted to the Moodle teacher. Audio recordings are stored on Moodle for a default of 365 days.
Next, I completed “Self Introduction (video).” This was similar to the previous module, recording a video rather than an audio file. “Conversation practice” allowed me to an “add discussion topic” button, and a typical Moodle text box popped up. With new mic and video icons I was able to record both audio and video clips directly in the rich-text editor box. I could also upload previously recorded files from my laptop. As with any other discussion post, students can reply to each other with audio/video recordings.
Some other tools in poodll are Wordcards and Speechcards. To experiment with Wordcards, I started the module by reviewing the words presented on digital flashcards, using sound/reading options. Speechcards are similar to flashcards. I pushed a button, then said the word on the flashcard. When I said the correct word, the card highlighted green, then transitioned to the next card. This functionality reminded me of Quizlet, an online flashcard building platform. The free version of Quizlet now contains ads, which can get quite annoying and disruptive, so I thought Wordcards and Speechcards were a great alternative that bypasses this issue.
One aspect of poodll that may become tedious is that one needs to click a “next page” button on quizzes, if students need to scroll through many speech exercises. However, another student I talked with believes that poodll’s text-to-speech capabilities could create a more “immersive” language learning experience for students, as they would be able to hear their new language spoken more. He concluded that, though poodll can be a bit cumbersome, its variety of interesting tools will make it a useful platform for Carleton language learners.
A non-language class application for poodll could be using its video and audio recording functionalities in asynchronous discussions. I’m an English major, and at one point this term we had a class that involved posting questions about a reading, then replying to a certain number of each others’ posts. I think being able to do that in the form of a video or voice recording could add a fun element to the discussion, bridging the gap between Moodle and in-person class in a useful way.
Poodll is not meant to replace other language learning platforms that Carleton language departments use. However, it has useful features/functionalities that could make this a valuable tool in language learning at Carleton. Additionally, I think that there are some out-of-the-box ways it could be used by other departments as well.