MOOC

 

What is a MOOC?

A massive open online course (MOOC) is a free web-based distance learning program that is designed for large numbers of geographically dispersed students. 

A MOOC may be patterned on a college or university course or be less structured. Although they do not always offer academic credits, these courses may offer a certification, enhance employment opportunities or further studies. Typically, MOOCs are used for higher education and career advancement. But due to the coronavirus pandemic, many public school districts and undergraduate degree programs have implemented MOOCs as the new standard. 

How do MOOCs work?

MOOCs are online courses that a student accesses through the internet. Typically, these courses consist of traditional class materials made accessible online, which may include the following: 

• filmed or recorded video lectures;
• readings;
• problem sets;
• online quizzes and examinations;
• interactive learning modules; and
• interaction with other students via forums.

Typically, each MOOC will include a course provider and a course platform. A course provider is often a university, which supplies the course materials and instructors. The platform -- such as EdX, Canvas, Coursera or Udacity -- provides the technological infrastructure for course modules, user access and other learning resources.