PSU - Overview of Mahara

Summary

This article summarizes Mahara, how to use it, and explains the 5 Navigation options found on the Main Menu. This article will be most helpful to PSU faculty users who are interested in an overview of Mahara.

How-To

What is Mahara?

Mahara is a fully featured web application to build your digital portfolio. You can create journals, upload files, embed social media resources from the web and collaborate with other users in groups.

How Do I Use It?

Below is an overview of Mahara. For more information on specific functionality, refer to the table of contents on the left column on the Mahara Dashboard Page. 

Navigation Options

DASHBOARD

This page is the place you land whenever you sign into Mahara. It is customizable, just like a Page you create. You are the only person who sees your Dashboard page. The default Dashboard page contains five blocks on the left side of the screen. See the list below:

• Find the latest version of improvements.
• The portfolio knowledge base is the repository for help articles by topic.
• The portfolio Canvas course is a step-by-step self-training course.
• If you cannot find help in the above resources, the portfolio help desk takes you to the ITS website that contains the help desk telephone number, email, and the ability to chat online with someone at the help desk.
• The portfolio templates are where Mahara templates for programs such as Art, Education, and Health and Human Service can be accessed. If your instructor tells you to use a template for Mahara, it is most likely in this area. The directions on how to perform the copy of the template are also located in this area. If the template is NOT in this area, contact your instructor for further directions.

MENU

The main menu icon (stacked horizontal lines) is located in the upper right corner of the Dashboard. Click on the stack to open the menu window and see the options listed below:

• Create section is where you create and upload artifacts (files) and create portfolios.
• Share section is where you share portfolios and view shared portfolios.
• Engage section is where you can connect with friends and Groups created by you or other Mahara users within the PSU Community (students, faculty, administration, and alumni).
• Manage section is for exporting or importing your Mahara data into HTML or Leap2A (Mahara) formats. Only the Leap2A format can be imported into a Mahara account.

Outcome

Users can expect to understand what Mahara is and how to navigate it.

Need additional help?

Visit the Technology Help Desk to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request.  For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.