What's a MOOC?

It’s true that Nebraska still doesn’t have online public charter schools, which would provide parents with a tuition-free, accredited online option for their kids, regardless of where they live. Nonetheless, students have more options than they used to, thanks to free, worldwide digital resources like MOOCs.

Some Nebraska homeschool parents have opted out of district schooling because their children want to dive deeply into certain subjects. Others are looking for a more classical education. Some don’t want to be constrained by the traditional school schedule for a variety of reasons, from health issues to athletic training schedules.

Whatever the reason for seeking alternative education, parents should know about MOOCs. They’re an affordable (free!) way to tap into some of the world’s greatest educational material.

What’s a MOOC?
MOOC stands for Massive Open Online Course. A MOOC is an interactive, step-by-step course aimed at reaching as many learners as possible worldwide.

How much do MOOCs cost?
They’re absolutely free! In most cases, all required course material is also provided free of charge online.

Who creates and hosts MOOCs?
In most cases, universities create and host MOOCs. They provide their expertise for free because there’s a growing need to make learning open and accessible to all. MOOCs are also good marketing tools to showcase a university’s offerings and give their professors platforms for their areas of research. The digital revolution is changing the way universities interact with students, just as it’s affecting K-12 education.

What kinds of subjects are covered in MOOCs?
Everything! Here’s a sample homeschool schedule entirely using tuition-free MOOCs:

•    Science:  Human Anatomy (University of Michigan)
•    Math:  College Algebra (Arizona State University)
•    Civics:  American Government (Harvard)
•    Technology:  Introduction to Computer Science (MIT)
•    Fine Arts Elective:  History of Art (University of Pennsylvania)
•    Language Arts:  AP English Literature and Composition (UC Berkeley)
•    Language Arts Elective:  Journalism for Social Change (UC Berkeley)

Who can study using MOOCs?
Anyone around the world with internet access can study using MOOCs.

How long does a MOOC take to complete?
MOOCs are typically designed to take 2 to 10 weeks to complete. Of course, since you’re going at your own speed, you can speed up or slow down as necessary. Since the material is available day and night, you can schedule it whenever it fits best with your other studies.

Are MOOCs accredited?
No. At this time, MOOCs will not provide you with transcript-ready credits. Some educators and organizations are working on finding ways to provide accreditation, and some MOOCs provide a printable certificate upon completion. Arizona State University is working on a way for freshmen to complete their first year of general education requirements via MOOCs. Expect to see more options like this in the future.

Where can I find MOOCs?
The following sites provide listings of current MOOCs:

MOOC List
Class Central
TechnoDuet
Knowledge Lover
Thought Co.

While you won’t be able to transfer MOOC credits to a public high school transcript like you can with accredited online high school courses, professionals and students are showcasing their completed MOOCs on resumes and college applications. Employers and admissions counselors love to see the initiative taken by people who want to learn, even if they can’t afford costly programs.

In the mood to learn something new? Sign up for a MOOC today, and expand your horizons.