I’m fascinated by the idea of MOOCs and the ideal of bringing high quality, high level education, for free, to anyone with a computer and an internet link. I would also like to improve my skills in developing on-line courses. Combining these two interests, I decided to sign up for a couple of MOOCs:
- Learning Design for a 21st century curriculum – delivered by Open Learning Design Studio (“OLDS”)
- Fundamentals of Online Education: Planning and Application – a Georgia Technical University Course, via Coursera.
The OLDS MOOC started a couple of weeks ago and unfortunately coincided with a spike in other more pressing work, so I have had to put it on hold. After next week, I will see if I can go back and review the material – but I suspect I’m too late to clamber aboard.
I have learned four slightly surprising things already about MOOCS (or these two at least)
- They are not something to do in your own time and at your leisure: you need to keep up with the pace.
- They are a highly social method of learning.
- They demand participative, active learning.
- MOOC providers may be at the forefront of technology, but they are not immune from serious technical glitches.
The Coursera MOOC started yesterday (Monday 28 January) and I resolved to do better, despite pressure of time, so I have made a start on the activities and am determined to submit the first assignments (there are three of them!) by next Sunday.
I’ll report on my progress at the weekend.
