MOOCs In On-line Coaching Prime Ideas To Select
Selecting and implementing MOOCs in online training courses
Massive open online courses are available to the public. While some still rely on a free model, others have a paid strategy. Regardless of their price, MOOCs involve an investment. You need to take the time to research the options and incorporate them into your online training strategy. Then budget for additional online training activities and sitting time. But how do you choose the best corporate MOOC for your online training goals? How do you rate the content, provider, and course structure to ensure it aligns with your employees’ preferences and branding? Here are 8 secrets to choosing, reviewing, and implementing MOOCs in online training.
8 Proven Tips for Using MOOCs for L&D
1. Clarify learning objectives and knowledge gaps to optimize your search efforts
You need a starting point. Learning objectives and gaps, as well as knowledge gaps, to aid you in your search effort so you can find the ideal MOOCs for your online training program. You should also meet with your team to get their recommendations and uncover hidden vulnerabilities. For example, department gaps that can be remedied with the right MOOC. Workplace observations, online surveys, and assessments are other great ways to determine what you need from a potential MOOC.
2. Special MOOC platform vs. targeted keyword research
There are generally two ways to approach finding MOOCs in online training. You can either focus on MOOC platforms / catalogs offered by specific organizations. Or, you can choose to do a targeted keyword search to expand the web. For either route, however, you need to know your audience and the training gaps in your current online training strategy. For example, an analysis of training needs shows that your employees need to improve their communication skills. Hence, you can focus on MOOCs that suit your niche, required skills, and / or the name of the university.
3. Check the course requirements
Many MOOCs have special requirements that corporate learners must meet before they can take the course. For example, they must already have sales experience. Or, you might have already completed the 101 course before signing up for the advanced course. In some cases, they may even have to take an entrance exam to check that they have met all of the criteria. Hence, you need to look for a MOOC that matches the level of experience and background of your team.
4. Explore the infrastructure, support, and technical elements firsthand
Register for the MOOCs on your shortlist and discover the features for yourself. How well is the course designed? Is the layout user-friendly? Are there a lot of interactive elements to keep your employees busy? This also gives you the opportunity to evaluate their support options. For example, do they have an active user community? If you run into a problem, can you contact the facility? Do they have at least one online FAQ or library to help troubleshoot known issues?
5. Evaluate the MOOC provider
The institution / organization that offers the MOOC should stand behind their “product”. Before including MOOCs in online training courses, like any other eLearning content provider, be sure to review them. Look up online reviews. Ask about their reputation in online discussions and social media groups. Contact them directly to ask questions and see how they react. Do you like to answer your questions professionally? How fast do you reply? Another thing to consider is their credentials. Is the course accredited? Do Employees Get Carryover Loans If They Choose To Learn More Online?
6. Weigh the costs involved
Certain MOOCs are free while others are paid. For paid options, determine whether the course is really affordable. Or whether it is best to develop a similar course in-house. If it’s free, there are other costs to consider. B. the development of additional online training activities or the provision of payroll hours for the sitting time of online training courses. For example, it will take some time for employees to familiarize themselves with the new MOOC platform or the new course design. Also, evaluate their pricing models to see if they are billed per course or on a subscription basis.
7. Give employees the opportunity to develop a personalized MOOC plan
One of the best ways to include MOOCs in online training is to empower employees and allow them to create customized online training pathways. You can choose from the catalog of MOOCs you have put together and develop your own plan. They should also set goals based on their personal areas of improvement. It may be advisable to conduct preliminary assessments to identify strengths and deficiencies so that they can select appropriate MOOCs.
8. Follow-up with ability and task mastery Qualitative assessments / activities
Certain MOOCs offer the complete package. They include everything from pop quizzes and simulations to infographics that provide support for “moment of need”. However, there are others that just provide the basics. If so, you will need to do your own online training activities and assessments to track skills and task mastery. For example, supplementary branch scenarios and serious games that help employees apply the persuasiveness and negotiation skills they have just learned. There must also be a support system in place. Like peer coaching or social media groups for those who need extra support. Or even just a place to share your experiences with the MOOC and look up related resources.
Conclusion
Not every training topic is suitable for a MOOC-based strategy. However, there is certainly no shortage of MOOCs to choose from. The key is not to rely solely on MOOCs to meet your online training goals. It is important to complement online training with reviews, activities, and resources as needed to personalize the process. This can help you avoid some of the drawbacks of including MOOCs in online training and ensure that your employees get the individual support they need.
Where do you start your MOOC search? Use our course directory to find the best online training content for your remote workers. You can even rate supplier reviews and ratings for the best value for money.
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