WeBWorK

What WeBWorK is

WeBWorK is a free online assessment and homework system for math and science courses. It delivers individualized problems over the web, gives students immediate feedback on answer correctness, and allows them to make multiple attempts. Instructors can view real-time statistics to inform lesson planning. The Open Problem Library offers more than 35,000 shared problems across mathematics and other STEM subjects. Problem authors can use an authoring interface that works with Perl and accepts commands from R. WeBWorK supports LTI 1.1 and 1.3 connections with learning management systems including Moodle, Canvas, Brightspace, and Blackboard. Authentication options include LTI, SAML2, and WeBWorK-managed authentication by default. The project lists several hosting routes: an institution’s own server, a free Runestone-hosted course, or dedicated hosting through Rationarium. Institutions may need system administrators to install and update the software. The project points users to its forums and Slack channel for questions and help. Its SOAP handler is disabled by default; a forum post describes it as unmaintained and potentially vulnerable if enabled.

Who it suits

WeBWorK suits math and science instructors who want to assign individualized online problems and review student performance statistics. It can also fit institutions that want LMS integration and can arrange hosting and, where needed, system administration.

Limits

The software is free, but hosting options and their prices vary. Institutional system administrators may be responsible for installation and updates. The SOAP handler is disabled by default and is described as unmaintained, with potential security vulnerabilities if enabled.

Getting started

1. Visit the WeBWorK website.
2. Choose a hosting route: an institution’s server, a free Runestone-hosted course, or dedicated hosting through Rationarium.
3. Arrange installation and updates with institutional system administrators if using an institution’s server.
4. Configure authentication with WeBWorK-managed accounts, LTI, or SAML2.
5. Connect a learning management system using LTI 1.1 or 1.3 if needed.

Verdict

Math and science instructors seeking free homework software with an extensive shared problem library and LMS connections should consider WeBWorK. Institutions without a hosting arrangement or administrative support should weigh the installation and maintenance responsibilities before choosing it.