How to create a plugin for Moodle using PHP

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

Course Summary

This course will take you through the complete process of developing your first Moodle plugin.

It is highly recommended that you have PHP, HTML, JavaScript and CSS experience before attempting to create a plugin 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 plugin, then take you through the actual process of:
- creating the plugin
- adding the core files
- managing versions
- adding templates
- adding JavaScript
- a new database table for your plugin
- create, read and update data
- using forms provide data to templates
- access the Moodle database
- Export data to CSV and PDF
- Secure your pages

By the end of this course you will be ready to answer that question....
"Can Moodle do THIS?"
And you will be able to answer...
"Sure, let me write a plugin that will do it."

The plugin process is recorded using Moodle 3.9 but the code can be used in Moodle 3.7.2+ This course does get deep into coding but I am sure you will enjoy it and learn so much that will save you searching for days on the internet to find the solution to creating your own first plugin.

I will see you in the course.
Chris Richter

 "The teacher explains very well, very well commented code, simple and easy to read code, and the most important part "up to date."! I believe this will be a great course for anyone that wants to start with Moodle plugins to learn the basics, before going to another more complex tutorial, that often is not being so well maintainable as this course is and where sometimes there is redundancies and old code that isn't applicable anymore. I highly recommend it!

Kelly 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.

 Raphael L

"I had no ideas of creating plugins in moodle and after the course I know how the db works and how to add stuff in moodle. Now I can write plugins by my own pretty much, not on an expert level but the course is for beginners."

Tyler M

"Very high recommend Moodle developer tutorial. You will also learn the background of work flow of Moodle. The author is actively visits the content and will answer if you struggle"

Kolo Z

"Really loved it, changed my perspective on the overall workings of Moodle"

Course Pricing

Premium course

$37 USD

  • New course special - was $57 (33% off)

    • 2.5 hours on-demand video
    • Community Access (ask questions, get help)
    • Full lifetime access
    • Certificate of completion
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