The discussions about the creation of a MOOC continue At this point it seems that the best option for us is to use D2L’s MOOC platform. The most attractive feature is that it provides a simple registration process: MOOC participants only need first/last name, email and a password to register. As a Program, we have the option of obtaining other data on our own, which we will do through other means. Other discussion points that seem to be solidifying include how to handle discussion groups, certificates for completion and the creation of levels of participation. At this point, I’ll try to limit the discussion group sizes to about 10 maximum and will need to closely monitor discussions each week to account for attrition. One thought is to assign participants to a specific group. Another is to create numerous discussion groups and have participants fill Group 1 to a maximum number folks, say 10, then fill Group 2, etc. Since the first MOOC offering will be a PILOT, I may try various combinations of strategies. When thinking about levels of completion, I will keep them simple the first time through, perhaps beginning with only two. One level would be those students who do the readings and participate in discussion and those who choose to do the assignments and submit a portfolio of work at the end of the course. The certificate/badge earned at the end of the MOOC would indicate the level achieved. A Portfolio Level (1) Certificate could be used to demonstrate to a principal or school administration full completion of the course requirements, demonstrating competency in the understanding of teaching inquiry through science and engineering practices. The Level 2 Certificate would document that students have been exposed to the course content through completing the readings and participating in a professional learning community-type discussion of the content. At this point we are considering sending earned certificates via email.
As the march along the yellow brick road on the way to the city of MOOC continues, so does my reflection of the process and eventual delivery of the course. My thanks to the MSSE Program and others who are working to make this possible.
