Me: Oh my gosh! I had the best MOOC ever a few months ago!

You: Oh yeah? (You have no idea what I’m talking about, right?)

Me: Yep. And now I’m in a MOOC that seems like it’s going to rock. And I have another MOOC starting in a week.

You: … (Smiling, not wanting to let me know you have no idea what I’m talking about.)

Me: You don’t know what a MOOC is, do you?

You: Not a clue.

Let me help you out with that. Until August I had no idea what a MOOC was either. Then I came across an offer for a FREE class through the University of Iowa’s Writer’s Workshop. I signed up—wouldn’t you? So, after more than nine years of paid university, I took the best university class ever without paying a dime! Well, okay, I paid $50 to get the certificate, but that part was optional.

What’s the Scoop on the MOOC?

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course that is offered online and is aimed at unlimited participation. There are courses in every field imaginable! It’s like a dream come true, right?

If you don’t know what I’m talking about (or don’t really believe me), here’s a link https://www.mooc-list.com that lists all of the courses you could potentially take…for FREE! I’m still trying to figure it all out, but I think there are several types of MOOCs. I am currently enrolled in this poetry workshop: Sharpened Visions: A Poetry Workshop

The Benefits of MOOCs

1. Who said there’s no such thing as a free lunch—err a free university class?
2. It’s a great way to meet new people from all over the world.
3. It’s an excellent way to try out different universities.
4. Since they’re online, you can go at your own pace and “attend” when it fits into your schedule.
5. There are videos lectures. Some courses have assigned or suggested readings as well, so you can invest as much or as little time as you want/have.
6. You have the option of purchasing a certificate. If you can use the credentials to show off your new hobby, go for it! The cost is a pittance for what you learn.

The Danger of MOOCs

1. It’s easy to over-extend yourself. With so many choices, how do you choose just one or two classes?
2. ??????

Okay, I can’t even think of a second negative point. Just remember you have the rest of your life to join MOOCs. Pace yourself.

If you love learning, and you have a bit of free time in your schedule, why not try a MOOC? If not, keep it on the back burner for now. Keep checking out the classes they offer—I’ve seen photography, quantum physics, poetry, web design, ESL teaching and so many more topics. I am sure there is something for everyone.

** Here is a link to a page that discusses the differences among popular MOOCs

https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-differences-among-popular-MOOCs-Massive-Online-Open-Courses-Coursera-Udacity-edX-Udemy-and-Lynda