I have been asked recently if there is the possibility for someone to modify the algorithm to suit their institutional needs.

Well the short answer is yes. The reason I am posting the answer to the mailing list is to make it available for anyone to see and to same me from having to write the explanation out each time I am asked.

In order to modify the algorithm I would recommend that you work with people who are familiar with PHP. That out of the way, the next thing to do is locate where the algorithm code is within the WebPA file structure. You will find in the folder /include/classes under the root of the website a folder called algorithms. In this folder there are currently three files 
* abstract_algorithm.php
* class_pets_algorithm.php
* class_webpa_algorthm.php

Basically the working of the algorithms are in the pets and webpa classes, which are extensions to the algorithm class in the file abstract_algorithm.php. If you want to write you own algorithm then I suggest you look at either of the classes and see how they have been put together and then write your own class in a similar way.

You will also need to add information the class_algorthm_factory.php to ensure that it all will be picked up. This file can be found in the /include/classes folder.

In addition you will also have to modify the file mark_assessment.php within the /tutors/assessments/marks folder to ensure that the new algorithm created has is displayed to the users (academic tutors).

If you do succeed in creating and testing a new algorithm then I am sure that this community would be very grateful if you could share it through the sourceforge area.

I hope this is helpful now and in the future.

Nic