BellaOnline Forums Education Distance Learning Questions about Open Online Classes

Some projects by some Stanford professors have helped to increase people's interest in open online education. Changes are occurring that have many wondering what the future of open education will look like.

Questions about Open Online Classes

Did anyone participate in the Artificial Intelligence course or any of the other open educational courses offered in t he fall? If you did let us know what you liked and/or disliked about the course.

A fascinating article Elizabeth!

I am not taking my classes "for a degree" - I don't need a degree in my line of work. It won't get me any benefit. However, I am taking the classes for a structured learning experience with fellow students who are in my line of work.

That is, I already have tons of books on management. I've read them all on my own. I get no feedback that way though. I don't know if I'm gaining the full knowledge. With an experienced mentor to guide me (the teacher) and an experienced set of business leaders to talk with (my fellow students) I get a far more rich experience. Also having the structure helps ensure I move through the material and learn it thoroughly. I love the feedback I get both from the teacher and my fellow students. The classroom discussion with experienced managers is by itself worth the 'admission price'.

So I would not enjoy an open course with 16000 students in the class. To me that would be pretty much like reading a book on my own. I can't imagine having a sane discussion in a forum with 16,000 students in it

I bet not so many would partake in such a forum. And surely there would be many sub-topic conversations that would be fun. I bet it would be reasonable. I find this idea exciting.

Dear Jilly -

You should give it a try and let us know how it is! We all thrive in different environments.

Elizabeth, I truly enjoyed the article, thank you for posting it!

I have a degree, at this point in my life, however, I have no interest in obtaining a Master's. I still take courses, mostly for knowledge and enjoyment.

Lisa, I've read many of your posts about school and you seem to truly enjoy your classes. I wonder how you get it all done in a day. Amazing!!!

Jilly, Exciting is good!

Dear Dianne -

I have charts I fill out. Each week I print out a form that has each course listed and I carefully note each thing I have to do in each course. Then I keep that on my desk. It's the only way I can be sure not to miss anything.

This current week I have three papers due, so sometimes it gets a little hectic! Plus my fifth medieval novel goes live on Saturday

Lisa, I would like to. Once my current life plans have settled in, I bet taking a bunch of online courses will be in my plans.

It's probably like here in these forums. There are TONS of members here, but really only a handful of people making the most noise. I bet i'd feel right at home.

That could be very true, Jilly! I'm interested to hear what it's like.