How to Use the Moodle Messaging System

The Moodle Messaging System is an essential communication tool for Moodle-using students and instructors. Here are some easy steps explaining how to use this system for (a) sending messages and (b) receiving messages and replying.

(a) Sending messages

1. Anywhere you see another person’s name as a link, you can click on it and go to that person’s profile and send a message. You may see a person’s name on the front page because they are logged in or you can click on a person’s name in the discussion area to send a direct message. The easiest place to know you can find a person’s name is in the “Participants” area.
2. Once in your class site, find the block entitled “People,” (This block is typically located in the right-hand column.), and click on “Participants” link.

3. You will see a list of people in the course. Click on the name of the person you want to message.

4. That brings up the person’s profile. At the bottom of the person’s profile is a button that says “Send Message.” Click that button.
   
   

5. You will see a message box. Now you can type your message using the toolbar similar to Word. When finished, scroll down and click “Send Message.”

6. If it is a person you are likely to contact regularly (instructor or team member), click the link at the top to add the person to your contacts.

(b) Receiving messages and replying

1. If someone has sent you a message on Moodle, it will pop up in a new window the next time you log in to Moodle.
   
   

2. If you cannot take time to read the message right then, you can close the window and still get to the message by going to the Message block (on the right) and clicking on the envelope icon (Do not click on the person’s name, or you will go to the profile.)

3. You will see his/her message and a reply box at the bottom.

4. To reply, simply type your message in the box and click Send Message. (You can also view your message history with that person by clicking “Message History” at the top.)

Advantages of Using the Moodle Message System

1. It sends a message through Moodle and an email if necessary—all at once.
2. It keeps a record of messages sent and received—for you and the instructor. This means there is documentation for each communication in class.
3. While you are working on a class, you can send a message right from the course site while you are thinking of it.
4. You do not have to try to find an email address—or be concerned whether it is current.