MOOCs are supposed to be free, but it appears that for universities and professors, that is hardly the case. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have so far proven to be a huge financial commitment for institutions and according to recent studies, the preparation can be very time consuming for the educators who build them. Financial Commitment The Chronicle of Higher Education has […]
24
Jul
13
Weighing the Cost of MOOCs: Is it Worth the Expense?
Posted by Russ Allen Published in History Onlineno comment
22
Jul
13
The Absent Professor: Grading Assignments for MOOCs
Posted by Russ Allen Published in History OnlineAs Massive Open Online Courses continue to gain popularity and media coverage, much of the focus has been on learning online vs. learning in a classroom. However, just as important as learning itself, is how to evaluate the learning. For most MOOCs, this comes in the form of tests and quizzes. The problem presents itself […]
17
Jul
13
Along with the growing popularity of MOOCs, has come a rising debate in regard to their effectiveness. It seems that there is a constant comparison between learning in an online environment and learning in a classroom environment. However, as several new articles suggest, perhaps the best solution can be found in a “hybrid” or “blending” […]
20
Jun
13
The stage appears to be set for what could be the future of higher education. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are one of the hot topics for universities around the country, with hundreds of courses being offered worldwide at no cost to users. Some have said that this move towards online higher education is a […]
13
Jun
13
Understanding Online Courses: A Student’s Perspective
Posted by Russ Allen Published in History OnlineAs a college student, I have always been both curious and skeptical about “online courses”. Although I have never taken one, I have often imagined the potential ease that learning at home would bring. Is this concept too good to be true though? Surely there must be a catch. As an intern at Dickinson College […]
11
Jun
13
Standing on the ground at the battlefields of Gettysburg is both a breathtaking, yet unsatisfying experience. Realizing that your feet are touching the same ground as men who died for a heroic cause brings humility, perspective, and a strong connection with history that cannot be experienced in an ordinary classroom. However, there remains a sense of disconnect from […]
