The Moodle Podcast

Truly active learning: Empowering modern classrooms with Fred Dixon

Recently, our hosts connected with Fred Dixon, CEO of Blindside Networks and co-founder of the open-source virtual classroom platform BigBlueButton. In this episode, Fred shares his mission to eliminate the "back of the classroom" in digital spaces, arguing that virtual learning should never be a passive experience like watching a YouTube video.We dive deep into the science of active learning and why "purposeful struggle" is the essential "burn" required for neural pathways to actually change. Fred provides a candid take on the rise of AI in education, warning that while it is a powerful tool for educators to gain back time, it risks becoming "ultra-processed food" for students—leading to cognitive offloading rather than true mastery.Key topics discussed include:Active Learning vs. Passive Meetings: Why tools designed for business meetings (like Zoom and Teams) often fail the pedagogical needs of a classroom.Using digital analytics to help teachers identify struggling students and provide mentorship at the upper end of a learner's ability.The "Oreo Cookie" of AI: Navigating the short-term incentives of AI shortcuts versus the long-term rewards of mental effort.Social Constructivism: How the integration of Moodle and BigBlueButton creates a social environment where learners help one another.Fred's take on "The Future of Education"Whether you are an educator looking to increase student engagement or a learner navigating the age of AI, this episode offers a grounded perspective on how to ensure "learning never stops".Catch Fred at https://blindsidenetworks.com/ or https://bigbluebutton.org/ or connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ffdixon/Visit Moodle at Moodle.com

The invisible barrier: Liz Starbuck Greer on the power of digital capital

In this episode, we sit down with Liz Starbuck Greer following her impactful session at MoodleMoot Global 2025, which was a firm favourite amongst attendees.While educators often focus on providing tools, Liz argues that tools are only half the battle. She will dive into the concept of ‘Digital Capital’ - the unique blend of skills, confidence, and networks that determines a learner’s success in a virtual world.In this episode, we discuss:Why access is more than just having a laptop or smartphone.How to identify and support learners with low digital capital.The intersection of accessibility, equity, and Moodle design.Practical ways to build "digital confidence" into your curriculum.This episode was hosted by Shalimar Anderson and Dan Lehner. Watch Liz's presentation from MoodleMoot Global 2025: What is digital capital and why should you care on YouTube. Visit Moodle at Moodle.com

Shaping tomorrow: Introducing three MoodleMoot Global 2025 keynote speakers

Listen in as Moodle HQ's Shalimar Anderson talks with Moodle Moot Global keynote speakers Dr. Naeema Pasha, Moodle CEO Scott Anderberg, and Marie Achour, Chief Product Officer at Moodle.The group explores the future of education and work, touching on the human-AI relationship, the importance of curiosity, and why our innate desire to learn gives them hope for the future. You'll hear why Moodle is committed to giving users choice and agency in a rapidly changing world and what the speakers hope attendees will take away from their MoodleMoot Global experience in September.Plus, get a sneak peek at the party theme and some tips for your costume!Join us for a fascinating conversation that will challenge you to think differently about how we learn, work, and shape tomorrow. #MootGlobal25 Visit Moodle at Moodle.com

How Mature Is Your Moodle? Why Evaluation Frameworks Matter with Dr Mark Glynn

Join Dr Mark Glynn (Head of Business Development at Catalyst IT Europe) and Jessica Gramp (Moodle Community Manager at Moodle HQ) as they discuss the Moodle Maturity Framework In this episode, they:Introduce the Moodle Maturity Framework and how it works.Share why evaluation frameworks are essential for strategic planning, quality assurance, and resource prioritisation.Explain how the tool aligns with JISC’s Digital Transformation FrameworkExplore the benefits for institutions, whether they’re just getting started with Moodle or looking to elevate their digital learning environment.Highlight why we’ve made the framework free and open to the global Moodle community.Learn more here: https://www.catalyst-eu.net/service/moodle-maturity-framework Visit Moodle at Moodle.com

Learning without borders: Building equitable education in the humanitarian sector

"In a country of so many billions of people and such little resources, how do you provide quality education to everyone?"In this inspiring conversation, Tanya Tierney, Learning Platform Lead at the FABO community, shares more about digital learning innovation for humanitarian organisations worldwide. In this episode, Tanya reflects on what it means to create accessible, relevant, and locally grounded education in a world marked by stark digital divides, shifting funding realities, and rapid technological change. This is a deep dive into the challenges and possibilities of NGO learning, from the flexibility of Moodle as an open-source learning platform to designing for diversity and inclusion.Whether you're an educator, technologist, or development practitioner, Tanya’s insights offer both practical lessons and bold inspiration for rethinking how we deliver educational tools. This episode was hosted by Barnana Sarkar. Visit Moodle at Moodle.com