Purpose

This guide explains how to set up modules (activities or resources) in Moodle 4.5 so they open automatically on a specific date and time using Moodle’s Availability settings. This is useful for weekly releases, pacing content, or coordinating with a syllabus schedule.

Key Concept: Availability Settings

In Moodle, Availability controls when students can see or access a module.
You can:

  • Hide content until a specific date/time

  • Show content but restrict access until a date/time

Step-by-Step: Schedule a Module to Open Automatically

Step 1: Turn Editing On

  1. Go to your course.

  2. Select Edit mode (top right of the course page).

Step 2: Add or Edit a Module

  • To add a new module:

    1. Click Add an activity or resource.

    2. Choose the activity or resource type (e.g., Page, Assignment, Quiz).

  • To edit an existing module:

    1. Select the three dots (⋮) next to the module.

    2. Choose Edit settings.



Step 3: Locate the Availability Section


  1. Click Add restriction.

  2. Select Date.


Step 4: Set the Release Date and Time

  1. Choose from (this means the module opens at the specified date/time).

  2. Select the date and time you want students to gain access.

  3. Confirm the restriction.

✅ Tip: Moodle uses the course time zone. Double-check your course settings if timing is critical.


Step 5: Choose Visibility Behavior (Important)

Next to the date restriction, you will see an eye icon:

  •  Open eye – Students can see the module but cannot open it until the date/time.

  • Closed eye – Students cannot see the module at all until the date/time.

Click the icon to toggle your preferred behavior.


Step 6: Save Your Changes

  • Click Save Changes

Your module will now open automatically based on the schedule you set.

Optional: Scheduling an Entire Section (Weekly Release)

If your course is organized by topics or weeks, you can schedule a whole section:

  1. Turn Edit mode on.

  2. Select the three dots (⋮) next to the section name.

  3. Choose Edit section.

  4. Use the Availability section to add a Date restriction.

  5. Save changes.

All modules inside that section will follow the section’s availability rules.

Best Practices for Faculty

  1. Match your syllabus: Align availability dates with your published schedule.
  2. Use “Show but restrict access” to help students plan ahead.
    Test with Switch role to → Student to confirm behavior.
    ⏰ Set release times consistently (e.g., Mondays at 8:00 AM).