Elon IT will upgrade Moodle to version 4.5 on May 29, introducing a more streamlined and accessible platform, with updated features and a thoughtful approach to enhancing digital learning.
On May 29, 2025, Elon will upgrade to Moodle 4.5, introducing a more accessible and user-friendly experience for faculty, students and staff. This upgrade reflects Information Technology’s (IT) commitment to enhancing digital learning environments and equipping faculty and staff with effective course management tools.
What to Expect
To implement these updates:
- May 29 (2–8 a.m.): Moodle will be temporarily unavailable while the upgrade is in progress.
- May 29 (8 a.m.–5 p.m.): Moodle will be available, but intermittent disruptions may occur during final testing.
- May 30: Moodle 4.5 will be fully launched, allowing all users to explore its new features.
What’s Changing in Moodle 4.5?
Moodle 4.5 introduces several refinements that enhance usability and streamline workflows, including:
- Improved course organization – A more intuitive layout and better tools for structuring content.
- Modernized text editor – A feature-rich, user-friendly, more accessible interface similar to Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
- Assessment & grading enhancements – More flexibility with bulk actions, question re-grading and quiz organization.
- Refined navigation – Updates designed to make workflows more efficient and improve overall ease of use.
Additionally, Moodle 4.5 is a Long-Term Support version, designed for long-term reliability and backed by extended expert support, with a focus on stability and security rather than frequent feature rollouts.
“This upgrade is more than new features; it enhances functionalities to support intuitive course organization,” said Dhvani Toprani, assistant director of Learning Design and Support in Teaching and Learning Technologies. “We recognize that change is challenging, so before and after the upgrade, our team is prepared and eager to guide and support our instructors through this transition with information sessions and self-service resources.”
Support and Resources
To ensure a seamless transition, Teaching and Learning Technologies (TLT) is providing:
- Information Sessions before and after the upgrade (as well as before the start of fall classes) to help instructors become comfortable with the new features.
- The Moodle 4.5 Resource Hub, a dedicated space for video tutorials and highlights, feature overviews and FAQs to explore at one’s convenience.
- One-on-one assistance for personalized support in adjusting course materials.
While Moodle 4.5 includes AI-based text and image generation features for students to submit and instructors to create assignments, TLT has chosen not to enable these AI tools at this time while their impact is being carefully evaluated. Information Technology is taking a thoughtful approach to integrating AI in Moodle, ensuring alignment with Elon’s AI Principles and preparing internal guidance before these features are launched.
“We’re really excited about the changes coming with Moodle 4.5,” said Kelly Reimer, senior director of Teaching and Learning Technologies. “This upgrade supports a smoother, more intuitive experience for our faculty, staff and students, and it’s one of many ways we’re working to align our digital tools with the evolving needs of teaching and learning at Elon.”
Throughout June, July, and August, Teaching and Learning Technologies (TLT) will provide ongoing support, including one-on-one and group consultations, as well as additional training, to help faculty and staff prepare for the next academic term.
“The TLT team has been attentive to building support resources and providing opportunities for engagement to learn the new features,” Toprani added. “We’re eager to engage with our community to ensure a seamless transition.”
Faculty and staff can visit the Moodle 4.5 Resource Hub, sign up for an information session, or connect with TLT for personalized support. For any immediate concerns, TLT is available to assist with the transition and answer any questions.