How to create a block for Moodle using PHP

Step by step, detailed instructions taking you through the complete process from zero code to functioning block.

 "For those who don't know anything about making new blocks, it's great!" 

Lucas C

This course will take you through the complete process of developing a Moodle block. A 'block' is a special type of plugin that is used in Moodle that can be added to pages, dashboards and other display areas in Moodle. A 'block' has a unique set of requirements when developing in Moodle that will be covered in this course.

It is highly recommended that you have PHP, HTML, JavaScript and CSS experience before attempting to create a block in Moodle but it is not essential that you have worked in Moodle before.

This course will teach you the basic structure and requirements of a 'block', then take you through the actual process of:

  • Creating a fully functioning blockList item two
  • Adding the core files 
  • Managing plugin versions
  • Adding the access file
  • Adding instance configuration options
  • Adding global config options
  • Adding the language file for the block Completing a
  • YouTube playlist RSS reader function to demonstrate the block
  • Publishing the plugin to your Moodle LMSList item four

The block process is recorded using Moodle 3.9 but the code can be used in Moodle 3.7.2. This course is primarily for PHP developers, but if you have understand other programming languages you should be able to easily transfer your programming knowledge to PHP and to this course.

 "Great course with good pacing and explanations" 

Jacob B

Course Curriculum

Chris Richter

Chris Richter is the founder and CEO of Ricoshae, a leading digital agency specialising in online education and digital content creation. With more than two decades of experience in web development, digital media, and programming, Chris brings a deep understanding of how technology can enhance learning.

Chris began his career at Australia’s largest vocational education and training organisation, where he supported thousands of students and teachers and helped manage and improve large-scale online learning platforms. He also led the development of Cloudstor, an award-winning file-sharing platform recognised by the Australian Telecommunications User’s Group.

Over the years, Chris has created content for more than 200 online courses across a wide range of subjects—including music business, animal studies, eco-tourism, and retail. His work has earned multiple awards, such as the Premier’s Public Sector Award and the NBSA Step Ahead Online Program Award.

A passionate advocate for effective digital learning, Chris has also presented at numerous conferences, including eResearch, ITEC, and Sydney mLearn. In this course, he draws on his extensive industry experience to help you develop practical skills and create engaging online learning experiences of your own.

ACCESS to All Courses

You may prefer to access all courses for 12 months at a substantial discount. 

Course Pricing

Premium course

$49.99 USD

    • 1.5 hours on-demand video
    • 1 article
    • 1 downloadable resource
    • Community Access (ask questions, get help)
    • Full lifetime access
    • Certificate of completion
Buy Now

Monthly access

$19 USD

per month

    • 1.5 hours on-demand video
    • 1 article
    • 1 downloadable resource
    • Community Access (ask questions, get help)
    • Monthly access (cancel at any time)
    • Certificate of completion
Buy Now

12 Months access

$79 USD

per year

    • 1.5 hours on-demand video
    • 1 article
    • 1 downloadable resource
    • Community Access (ask questions, get help)
    • 12 months access
    • Certificate of completion
Buy Now

Ricoshae YouTube

Additional resources can be found on my YouTube Channel with over 150 videos covering online education content development. Focused on the Moodle LMS, Plugin Development in PHP, Bootstrap, H5P and other online learning development skills. 

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