How to Get the Most of MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses)
MOOC refers to (Massive Open Online Course) is an online course that is available to a large number of learners via the internet. The online course uses a variety of methods, both traditional and non-traditional. Such methods help engage learners and ensure they achieve the learning objectives. Video tutorials, online assessments, and discussion forums are examples of the tools that you can use to get the most of MOOCs. If you’re ready to start your employee training, check the 4 things to look for when choosing an online learning platform for your business.
There are several key benefits associated with using a MOOC for your training and development environment. For example, learners are not constrained by geography or time, participants can learn collaboratively through online tools. MOOCs are available to anyone, regardless of their software set up or previous educational achievements.
Here are our top 4 tips to ensure that your learners get the most of MOOCs
Encourage learners to create their own learning goals.
This is of particular importance if the course already has its own objectives. But establishing learning goals before starting a course is a key component to creating a successful learning experience.
Encourage learners to commit to a certain number of hours per week for each course.
Some courses provide a guideline for the sort of time commitment a learner should aim for. But time commitments can vary depending on the goals of the course. A helpful strategy is to encourage learners to block off specific times each week in their calendar for course study. When learning goals have been established, it is good practice for learners to keep an online notebook. An online notebook helps to record learning goals, make notes, list web links, web artifacts, images or any other content associated with the course.
Get ready for the information overload
It is not uncommon for learners to feel overwhelmed when they start a course. Many do not know where to begin, where to find course materials and are at a loss as to how the MOOC works. Try running a training session so that learners understand the environment and the basic concept that the course is self-directed and motivated.
Create guidelines
It is useful to create a series of guidelines to help learners adapt to the online learning environment. For example, one guideline can help learners treat each course with the same level of seriousness as if they are sitting in a traditional classroom. This means taking careful notes during video lectures and giving the course their full attention.
Finally, A MOOC provides a rich learning experience that can improve an individual’s professional or personal development. Thus shrinking the skills gap in the workplace. However, a learner needs to be self-motivated to get the most out of these online learning opportunities. A learner that invests the time to review materials, set goals, share and collect the knowledge, will get the most out of a MOOC.
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