Dewar and Hutty (2015)

The range of courses available as MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) grew rapidly . From courses on the history of the Rolling Stones to high performance scientific computing there is a course for everyone. However whilst the subject matter of the MOOC is becoming more diverse than its beginnings in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), there is one area of learning that is less represented. This article details the issue of MOOCs in the area is the practical subjects, such as plumbing, carpentry, and electronics. The authors raise questions as to whether the MOOC can be used to support the learning of practical subjects. This article reviews the potential use of MOOCs, for practical education. The first section of the paper examines the benefits and difficulties of applying the MOOC formula to practical education. The second section of the paper details possible methods for the adaption of the MOOC formula. The authors conclude with a brief discussion as to the future of MOOCs for practical subject education.

Full reference:

Dewar E, Hutty D, A Practical Education: The Benefits and Difficulties of Adapting MOOCs for Practical Based Subjects in Further Education, INSPIRE 2015, Loughborough, 2015