The template method you describe is of very limited help, especially when building multiple courses. 1) I have to build my resource list when I build my first course for it to be included in the template, it is not much use once I've finished a series of courses, which is when I'd usually start compiling the resources list (which is the logical way to do it, at the end). 2) If I want to add resources or change them, I still need to go back and edit each resources page in each course...item by item (this is the slowest possible way I could imagine having to do this!)
Why could there not at least be a bulk import feature, say from an excel template, like is available for quiz questions? Then at least one could maintain a resources document and just reimport it when needed to each course?
At this point, the best use of the Resources button is to hold a URL to a document externally which can be maintained and edited. The same appears to be the case for the Glossary. I could not imagine entering each item one by one for 8 different courses after they are built. If am missing something please let me know! Thanks.