2.2.6 Consider all constrains related to resource usage
This lesson explores constrains that you should keep in mind when working with existing resources, like for instance file format and size.
1. Introduction
1.4. URL (links)
URL is a very flexible and powerful Moodle resource. It helps bring external resource into the course environment. Nevertheless there are a few limitations that is worth to think about before adding a URL.
Accessibility
Due to a high security protection in some institutions learners may meet a barrier when trying to access an external URL. This is true not only for individual organizations but whole countries. Our practice shows that Google products, repositories like Dropbox or video sharing services like YouTube are not accessible to everybody. The advisable solution would be to survey your learner and ask them to test URLs. In case some learners are disadvantaged, you should produce an alternative resource.
Password protected
Some websites require user to have an account. That means one ore more steps for the learner to access the resource. Moreover, some web services are not free or require agreements learners may object to.
Expired links
We have more control over the resources stored inside our Moodle environment. The external URLs may expire or disappear, therefor they need frequent review.