Add content blocks
Blocks are a type of static content, similar to resources. They are used to provide an overview of the course itself or to link to external tools such as lecture capture (EchoVideo) and reading lists (Talis Aspire). They can be added to the block drawer on the right-hand side column of Moodle courses. There are also some blocks added to the Moodle dashboard.
In this guide:
What are blocks?
Watch the video below for an overview of blocks:
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Course blocks
The following are commonly-used blocks in Moodle at Warwick.
- EchoVideo - links to lecture capture recordings.
- Talis - links to the library reading lists.
- Text blocks - add your own content including HTML and customise this block to your requirements.
- Calendar - shows important dates for the module including assignment deadlines, quiz dates and other reminders you manually add.
Dashboard blocks
The blocks on the dashboard are set site-wide and cannot currently be customised.
- Modules and other courses
- Starred courses
- Timeline
- Calendar
You can find more information about dashboard blocks in the Navigate your dashboard guide.
Uses for text blocks
The text block is a versatile block as it is has a content section with the same editing toolbar as most resources. This means that you can use HTML to create custom menus, embed media files as well as X or other social media feeds. Importantly, you can add multiple text blocks to a single Moodle course.
Any valid HTML code can be added to the text block. However, please note:
You can use:
- inline CSSLink opens in a new window
- font awesomeLink opens in a new window
- bootstrapLink opens in a new window markup
You cannot use:
- an external CSS file
- Javascript
Create a resources or links menu
One of the more effective uses for the HTML block is in providing a module/department wide navigation menu, particularly for links to external (SiteBuilder and elsewhere) pages.
As you can use any standard HTML, including Bootstrap, it is possible to create horizontal menus using tabs or pills, with panesLink opens in a new window, and even collapsible accordionsLink opens in a new window to create more complex versions.
Module leader profile
Here is an example of one department's Module Leader block added to each of their Moodle courses. It shows the module leader's name, photo, contact details and office hours.