Individual ZIP Download Activity

Maintained by Tangat Baktybergen
This Moodle plugin generates personalized zip templates by automatically replacing @author and student ID placeholders in C code with individual student data. It also modifies makefiles automatically based on the selected operating system.
Free
Download for free
Supports Moodle 4.1-5.0 See all versions
Latest release: 11 months ago
Installations: 13
Downloads (last 90 days): 40
Frankenstyle name: mod_zipdownload
Activities

Key Features

  • Personalized Code Distribution: Automatically generates a ZIP file for each student by replacing placeholders in C source files and the Makefile with their own name, student ID, and selected platform (Lab, Windows, Mac).

  • Template-Based: Teachers upload a ZIP template containing .c, .h files and Makefiles (including subfolders). The plugin handles all replacements automatically.

  • Easy Platform Selection: Students choose their platform on first click (Lab, Win, or Mac). The plugin updates the PORT= line in each Makefile accordingly.

  • Smart Naming: Output ZIP files are named with student ID and platform for easy identification, e.g., Template-12345-Win.zip.

  • Makefile Auto-Adaptation
    Supports common serial port definitions:

    • Lab: /dev/ttyUSB_MySmartUSB

    • Win: COM3

    • Mac: /dev/tty.SLAB_USBtoUART

Why This Stands Out

  • Effortless Automation: Eliminates manual editing — every student gets a fully personalized and platform-ready ZIP instantly.

  • Seamless Integration: Functions as a standard Moodle activity with intuitive setup.

  • Consistent Results: Reduces errors and confusion about setup or configuration in lab-based coding environments.

Example Use Cases

  • Programming, embedded systems, or robotics courses requiring individualized starter code.

  • Lab assignments needing personalized serial ports or author information.

  • Any C-based coursework with structured templates across multiple exercises.

Usage & Settings

  • Add the activity in your course: "Add an activity or resource" ' ZIP Download.

  • Upload your ZIP template with .c files and at least one Makefile.

  • Students access the activity, select their platform, and instantly download a customized ZIP package.

Highlights

  • Instant ZIP generation for each student.

  • No extra tools or configuration needed for teachers.

  • Supports ZIP templates with complex subfolder structures.

  • Keeps your coursework clean, structured, and student-ready.

Take the busywork out of practical assignments—let your students focus on learning, not on editing files!

Contributors

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