How to Link a Google Doc in Moodle

There are two ways that you can let students interact with Google docs that you want to post in in your Moodle course:

1. If you want your students to have the ability to print, download, copy, or edit, then sharing the document is the way to go. Be sure you understand how to share a Google doc before continuing.
   
2. If it is a document that you only want the student to view your Google doc, without giving them the option to download, copy, or print, then you want to publish your Google doc instead of share it. (This webpage you are currently viewing is a published Google doc). Here are instructions on how to publish a Google doc.

In addition to your options that control how your student interacts with your document, there are two ways that you can link a Google doc in your Moodle course.

1. You can create a URL resource that appears as a link directly on your course main page (see image below):
   
2. You can create a hyperlink in any text you create in the ATTO text editor. (See image below):
   

This tutorial focuses on how to post a Google doc as a URL resource. Here are instructions on how to create a hyperlink using the text editor in Moodle.

Step 1: Navigate to your Moodle course.

• To post your link in Moodle so that it will open in its own window (which is considered a best practice when navigating away from the home environment), navigate to your course and turn editing on:

• Navigate to the content section where you want the link to appear, and click “Add a resource...” to access the pull-down menu. Select URL. (If you have the Activity Chooser turned on, a pop-up window will appear, scroll to the bottom of the list and select URL.)

Step 2: Create the URL.

• In the “Adding a New URL” page that opens, complete the following steps. Note that the fields with asterisks are required:

1. Give the URL a name that you want to appear in the Moodle content section.

2. Give the URL a description.

3. Click in the box next to “External URL”, and paste the Google doc URL (Ctrl + V).

4. Proper “netiquette” recommends indicating the link to appear in a new browser window. Make any other optional changes that you prefer at this time.

5. Click “Save and return to course” at the bottom of the page.

Step 3: Check your link.

• Locate your new link, and move it, if necessary (with the “” icon).

• Test it out by clicking the link. It should open in a new browser window or tab. Make any adjustments to the settings that are needed.