Friday, May 04, 2007

Java Powerlinks for WebCT

OK, something I've been workig on that is quite interesting is a Java powerlink for Exeter University's WebCT VLE (Virual Learning Environment).

Essentially, a Powerlink is exactly that, a powerful link from the WebCT system to another bespoke system, bypassing the normal user login screens since the login details are taken directly from WebCT. Cool!

It's all written in Java in a particular way to work with the existing WebCT system, which is also written in Java. Since there are not many people at the university that know how to program in Java, I was given the task! The first thing I did was read the instruction manual and log on to the website. There's a whole site devoted to building Java Powerlinks for WebCT since the VLE is used extensively all over the world. On the site, developers from many different countries ask questions and use the resources provided to create their own powerlinks. As you can imagine, this made the job a lot easier!

It's being tested at the moment so I'll keep you updated as to it's progress.

Ian

I'm back

Hi,

After a manic start to the year including getting all of the new Distance Learning courses up and running for the end of January, marking assignments for the Exeter University modules and marking the Open University TMAs (Tutor Marked Assignments) plus an OU tutorial in March, things are finally starting to quiet down.

Hurrah!

I honestly cannot remember such a busy start to the year as this. Still, now that summer seems to have arrived, there should be time to look ahead and plan for the new academic year.

And do some more blogging too...watch this space!

Ian