Topic 2 reading expressed the course structure and history of open learning and distributed learning. I noticed that these learning environments are consist of five-element, enrollment, amount, timing, platform, and Pathway. I had not considered there were two distinct forms of MOOCs and now I understand the difference between them. According to Major(2015), cMOOCs, are associated with the notion of connectivity, a theory of learning that uses the meta­phor of a network made up of nodes and ties to describe learning, and the xMOOC emerged largely from the work of Stanford University professors Sebastian Thurn and Peter Norvig, who taught a course in artificial intelligence in which over 160,000 participants enrolled. From the number of learners, I believe the cMOOCs is designed for contributed learning and xMOOC is for open learning. It is because the method and targeted learner differ by the connection between each person.

The refected my personal experience since my study is mostly close to distributed learning in this year because covid-19. The close enrollment, online and asynchronous courses, Brightspace, every element builds the framework of distributed learning. I can apply the distributed learning method inside of the university. Recorded lectures and videos are provided on the Brightspace, also I can study at any time. Also, I can finish my assignment and upload it to the site. On the other hand, an open learning environment can be applied outside of the university. I can search the content and topic which I am interested in. I would discuss my understanding with the outer leaner on the platform as well. If I am a teacher, I would like to apply the open learning method from the reading. I would like to use social media to teach online just like Howard did. I would record the lecture and article on social media and bring out a couple of questions for learners to discuss.

 

Reference

 

Major, C. H. (2015). Teaching Online – A Guide to Theory, Research, and Practice. Retrieved from http://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/uvic/detail.action?docID=3318874

Jordan, K. & Weller, M. (2017). Openness and Education: A beginners’ guide. Global OER Graduate Network.