Moodle Based E-Learning System for “Data Structures in JAVA”

Abstract

UCSC is one of the leading universities which are highly focussed on improving the level of computer literacy in Sri Lanka. The external distance learning BSc programme (BIT) which was recently introduced by UCSC is one of the highest attractive distance learning programmes among Sri Lankan students and undergraduate students overseas. With rapid expansion plans and highly competitive education market context, UCSC is focusing on improving its quality of programs, contents, process efficiencies and productivity in order to sustain its market leading position in computer higher studies.

The initial requirement was to develop a system for individuals to learn Data Structures & Algorithms topic effectively. Gradually the initial requirement got expanded and therefore a requirement aroused to develop a Moodle based E-Learning system. As a result a detailed analysis was done prior to Content Development, to gather an idea area of about the contents to be included.

Content Development was started together with supervisor’s supervision and started collecting more details on chapters via Books and from the Internet, accordingly the Course Map was designed. Thereafter each level of course map was designed in detailed using Story Boards, which was used as the main design tool in the whole process of this development.

Then the development of the system was considered using Moodle which is open source software which provides the necessary platform for an E-learning module to be designed and developed. It took some time to get it installed and then to get used to it, after so much of effort, the development of a course called “Data Structures in Java” was done. Gradually content development for each Chapter was considered.

Content development was basically done by using Text Pages, and as a scripting language HTML was used. User friendliness is yet to achieve by developing a efficient, reliable and effective E-Learning system.