File Behaviors in Moodle

When using the File item in Moodle, it is possible to control what happens when a student clicks on the link to the file.

Automatic: Moodle attempts to select the best method for the file

Embed:  Open the file within the Moodle course page (if possible with this file type)

New Window: open the file in a new  window/tab (if possible with this file type)

Force Download: download the file and stay on the existing page in the web browser

Open: open the file in the current window/tab (if possible with this file type)

In pop-up: open the file in a pop-up window (if possible with this file type). Many browsers block pop-up windows, so this is not a suggested approach.

Change file behaviors

To change the behavior of the file item, go into Edit Mode and then update the settings for the file item. In the Appearance section, change the Display option.

Suggested behavior

While it is often preferable to open files in a New Window, it is not the best practice for reaching all users. From an accessibility standpoint, a link or file should open in the current tab unless there is a signal to indicate that the file will open in a New Window. Therefore, Open is the preferred option.

Some files, such as Microsoft Word documents, may not open in a web browser and will download no matter which option is selected. Conversely, some types of files, especially text-based files such as computer programs, may always open in a web browser. For these files, Force Download may be more appropriate.