My experiences of MOOC’s

Following on from my post on Monday here is my take on MOOC’s. Basically they are great and they do work. I have been a student of 5 now and for zero cost I have gained a lot of valuable information. Some are better than others but that is to be expected as they are all trying out new ways of connecting, teaching and assessing. What I have found useful is:

1. Videos of talking heads are ok if you are interested in the topic. A lot of people get critical of the talking head video but I don’t see that there is much difference with a lecturer standing out the front of the class – still a talking head.
2. A well designed multiple choice is an effective assessment tool. Some of them have been really difficult and yes, they have assessed my knowledge.
3. You can do very effective assessment online. The database MOOC used a very effective assessment strategy, so effective I couldn’t complete it in the time I could allow for the program.
4. The interaction, if you want it, is very good. There are multiple ways to interact and it can be a lot of fun. In fact I have probably interacted more online than I would do in a traditional class.
5. Readings are also very useful. Again, if you are interested in the topic you will read anything.

So what is their future? Who knows. I don’t see the point of free for ever though. Would I pay? Yes, I would if I was interested in the topic and I received formal recognition. For professional development they are great as the time is flexible. I watch the videos at night, in bed using an iPad. It couldn’t be any easier or more relaxing especially with a glass of wine. Now you wouldn’t be able to do that in class.