2018•Unpublished venueRequires access

Pre-induction supports for flexible learners: the headstart online MOOC pilot. A practice report

James Brunton, Mark Brown, Eamon Costello, Orna Farrell

Abstract

This practice report discusses the development of the Head Start Online MOOC. This initiative targeted flexible learners, defined as adults engaged in part-time or online distance learning, during the initial stages of the study life-cycle. Drawing on the literature, the experiences of major international Online and Distance Learning (ODL) providers, and a set of overarching design principles, the MOOC (Massive open online course) was developed with a suite of digital readiness tools at its heart. These tools were combined with other supporting materials in order to deliver a comprehensive pre-entry socialisation course. A small pilot of Head Start Online ran over five weeks with 150 people enrolled and 50 going on to receive a certificate of completion. The feedback received, albeit limited by the numbers of respondents, indicates that a course that strategically uses digital readiness tools can have a positive impact on new and prospective flexible learners.

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Key concepts: Massive open online course, Online learning, Certificate, Suite, Distance education, Online course, Medical education, Set (abstract data type)