Troubleshooting: Error When Embedding a JoVE Playlist in Moodle

If you encounter an error while trying to embed a JoVE playlist into a Moodle course (for example, the playlist does not load, shows an error message, or prompts you to log in again), the issue is commonly related to browser settings, cookie restrictions, LMS permissions, or account recognition.

Follow the steps below to troubleshoot the issue before contacting JoVE Support.


Step 1: Confirm You Are Using the JoVE LTI Tool

JoVE playlists must be embedded using the JoVE LTI integration, not by copying and pasting a URL.

Please confirm:

  • You are adding content via External Tool

  • You selected JoVE from the list of available tools

  • You are not pasting a JoVE link directly into Moodle

If your institution uses more than one JoVE LTI version, ensure you are using the official and active JoVE LTI tool.


Step 2: Make Sure You Are Logged into the Correct JoVE Account

JoVE playlists are linked to the specific JoVE account that created them. If you are logged into a different account, the playlist may not open or may show an error.

Here’s how to check this in simple terms:

  1. Open a new browser tab and go to http://app.jove.com.

  2. Look at the top-right corner of the page and check which email address you are logged in with.

  3. Make sure this email address:

    • Is the same email you use for your institution (for example, your university or school email)

    • Is the same account that was used to create the playlist

Things to keep in mind:

  • If you have more than one JoVE account (for example, a personal email and a school email), you may be logged into the wrong one.

  • If your email address was recently changed in Moodle, it may not yet match the email on your JoVE account, which can prevent access.

If you discover the playlist was created under a different JoVE account, you will need to log out and sign back in using the correct email address.


Step 3: Check Third-Party Cookie Settings

JoVE playlists require third-party cookies to function properly inside Moodle.

You may refer to this link: https://help.jove.com/hc/en-us/articles/34906617801492-How-to-Enable-3rd-Party-Cookies-for-the-JoVE-LTI-Tool.

Please ensure:

  • Third-party cookies are enabled in your browser

  • Browser privacy or tracking-prevention features are not blocking JoVE

After enabling cookies:

  1. Close all browser tabs

  2. Reopen your browser

  3. Log back into Moodle

  4. Try embedding the playlist again


Step 4: Disable Browser Extensions

Some browser extensions can interfere with embedding external content.

Temporarily disable:

  • Ad blockers

  • Privacy or tracking-blocker extensions

  • Script-blocking extensions

Once disabled, refresh Moodle and retry embedding the playlist.


Step 5: Try a Different Browser or Incognito/Private Mode

To rule out browser-specific issues:

  • Use Google Chrome (recommended)

  • Try Incognito / Private mode

  • Avoid Safari if possible, as it has stricter cookie restrictions by default

If it works in incognito mode, a browser setting or extension is likely the cause.


Step 6: Confirm Playlist Permissions

Please verify:

  • The playlist exists and contains videos

  • The playlist is not empty

  • The playlist is accessible to your institution (not created under a personal or trial account)

Only playlists created under an institutional JoVE account can be embedded successfully for students.


Step 7: Test Embedding a Single Video

To isolate the issue:

  1. Try embedding a single JoVE video using the same LTI tool

  2. If a single video embeds successfully but the playlist does not, the issue is likely playlist-specific

This information is helpful if escalation is needed.


Step 8: Check Moodle and LTI Permissions

If you have instructor or admin access, confirm:

  • The JoVE LTI tool is enabled in Moodle

  • The tool has permission to open in a new window

  • Pop-ups are not blocked by Moodle or the browser

If unsure, your LMS administrator may need to review these settings.


When to Contact JoVE Support

If the issue persists after completing all steps above, please get in touch with JoVE Support and provide the following information:

  • Your institution name

  • Your Moodle version

  • The email address used in Moodle and JoVE

  • Whether the issue occurs with all playlists or only one

  • A screen recording* (preferred) or screenshots showing step-by-step behaviour or exact error message

📧 Contact JoVE Support by sending an email to support@jove.com


Summary

Most playlist embedding errors in Moodle are caused by:

  • Third-party cookies are being blocked

  • Browser extensions or privacy settings

  • Account or email mismatches

  • Playlist permission or ownership issues

Completing the above-mentioned steps resolves most issues without further intervention.

 

*Guide on How to Record Your Screen

Related to