Customization of open-source solutions on the example of the LMS Moodle distance learning platform

Abstract

Open-source software has been a vast topic of thought and discussion since its inception. Many companies and developers did not understand for what purpose open-source software was developed, and some even opposed the existence of such solutions. Others, on the contrary, supported and still support the creation and distribution of this kind of programs, despite their unprofitableness. One of these programs is Moodle. It is a free web application that provides the ability to create websites for online learning, created in the early 2000s. Anyone can easily create or modify their own learning platform for free and without problems with copyright and licenses. The platform supports a huge number of languages, is constantly updated, and is also easy and convenient to customize. The user can add and customize his plugins and addons. The system has found wide application in connection with the emergence of COVID-19, since most schools and universities have switched to distance learning. Moodle functionality allows you to collect more than 50 users in one session without losing productivity. The platform has a built-in mechanism for authorizing users, including a login and password, which will not allow intruders to carry out unauthorized access to personal data of users. Teachers can leave the necessary files and recordings of classes on the platform for learners to access them. This article discusses the goals and issues of creating open-source software, its customization and application for solving problems of various kinds of activities, including the organization of multi-user educational platforms using the Moodle platform.