Possibilities of MOOCs

This spring, we will publish the first two MOOCs at the University of Oulu. One is in Finnish and one in English. Thinking and Talking about Climate MOOC (Ilmasto mielessä ja kielessä, this is the MOOC in Finnish) provides tools for identifying emotions caused by climate change and taking them into account as part of constructive climate interaction. Persuasive Systems Design MOOC, on the other hand, helps you understand how information technology aims to influence your thinking. But what are MOOCs and what do they mean for us at the University of Oulu?

MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) are online courses that are open to everyone and can be completed on one’s own schedule. MOOC studies offer an opportunity to get acquainted with the excellent educational selection of the University of Oulu.

In MOOCs, we cover topics that interest large numbers of students. Our MOOCs are always based on the teaching and research of the University of Oulu. In MOOC studies, you can, for example, get acquainted with the unique research carried out at the University of Oulu, study a new, current phenomenon or peek at the studies of a discipline that is still unfamiliar to you. 

At the University of Oulu, we have decided that our MOOCs are completely free of charge and open to everyone, and there are no admission requirements. In principle, anyone with an internet connection can study MOOC studies at the University of Oulu and receive an official transcript of records and study credits completely free of charge.

University of Oulu MOOCs aim for an excellent study experience. Studying is flexible, as you can start studying at any time, and you can progress as quickly or slowly as you want. Although studying on a MOOC is independent, it is not passive receiving of information. Our MOOCs are designed with learning in mind, emphasizing the activation of the learner and guidance on progression.

University of Oulu will publish the first two MOOCs this spring. Developing them, we have identified what needs to be considered when making a high-quality MOOC. However, there are still issues to be solved for clarifying the MOOC model of the University of Oulu. We will tell you more about the progress and results of this work during the spring.

Stay tuned!

Authors: Tiina Vertanen and Suvi Kauppi