Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have recently created a surge of interest in the future of higher education. The “massive” nature of these courses indicates that they are attracting unprecedented numbers of students. For example, in an 18 month period, leading MOOC providers edX and Coursera enrolled nearly 10 million learners in close to 1000 courses. In Fall 2014, the LINK Lab spearheaded a MOOC focused on Data, Analytics, and Learning (DALMOOC). DALMOOC attracted over 19,000 participants while serving as a test bed for several innovative designs and technology tools. The LINK Lab and its research associates examined the data from DALMOOC to see how they can glean insight into open online learning. Some of the issues that this analysis examined include: How sustainable is the MOOC model (a question that has plagued MOOCs since the first MOOC was offered in 2008)? How well do learners adjust to new technology and course designs? What aspects of open learning are most effective in online environments? Additionally, large amounts of data were recorded about participant activities (clicks, activities, video views, etc.) in the course, the analysis of helped researchers understand how these participants engage with free content.


Recent MOOCs:


Pivot to Online Teaching MOOC In Pivot to Online Teaching, participants explore research-informed, effective practices for online teaching and learning. By enrolling, you will learn practical ways to quickly move into teaching online, guided by top scholars and practitioners in the field. Each module, you will watch videos and read articles by online learning experts and participate in activities and discussions covering critical topics that will make the online environment a rich learning experience for your students. The instructors will synthesize relevant resources to help those who are new to online learning and those who have experience, but want to expand their skills and provide support for others. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, share practices that have worked well in online learning environments, and receive feedback on your teaching and learning plans.

Past MOOCs:


Learning Analytics Series Participants that completed the Learning Analytics Series had the opportunity to learn about this exciting and growing field. The Learning Analytics Series had ten courses that helped learners develop highly sought after data and learning science skills that are applicable to positions in K-12, higher education, non-profits, corporations, and the military. The first course ran April 2018. Courses in the series included:
YogaMooc YogaMOOC explored the science-backed implications of the digital age on health and taught students how to use yoga to counter the musculoskeletal effects of digital use. Translating ancient yogic teachings into modern day life and using yoga to interrupt habitual thought patterns were two other areas covered in the course.

Digitizing Higher Education Digitizing Higher Education explored the impact of digitization on how universities function administratively and academically through. Learners received an overview into how digitization impacts universities and colleges. Higher education administrators, faculty, staff, and students benefited from this course by exploring the emerging structure and role of higher education.

Introduction to Open Education Through Introduction to Open Education, participants learned about open education and how it can significantly reduce costs, increase agency and transparency, and improve learning outcomes.

DALMOOC The Data, Analytics, and Learning MOOC provided an introduction to learning analytics and how it is being deployed in various contexts in education, including to support automated intervention, to inform instructors, and to promote scientific discovery. The COCOA project also involves research into learner pathway selection, well-being, artifact creation, social learning, and design frameworks.

What Now MOOC The What Now? Emerging Technologies and Their Practical Application in K-12 Teaching and Learning MOOC was an education and teacher training course focused on the intersection of research and actual classroom practice. It brought together thought leaders, campus leaders, and practicing teachers to provide a practical framework for integrating technology into K12 teaching and learning.