The Impact of Open Source

http://www.extension.harvard.edu/open-learning-initiative/shakespeare-after-all-later-plays

I have decided to review the Harvard University open source course entitled: “Shakespeare After All: The Later Plays” This course is offered through the Harvard Extension School’s Open Learning Initiative.  At the time that I accessed the school’s web site, there were 8 courses listed in a lecture video format.  The subject matter of the courses varied from liberal arts to engineering and math.  In terms of best practices for online learning, the course that I reviewed was organized into modules based upon the various Shakespearean plays.  I believed that this type of course organization helps the learner organize distinct concepts in a logical and digestible manner. 

One of the challenges with the course was that there were no assessments that afforded learners the opportunity to check their knowledge acquisition and have core objectives reinforced.  Another flaw in the course is that there is no opportunity for interaction with the instructor or other learners.  I was quite shocked to notice that there was not even a blog attached to the course.  This would have at least provided an opportunity for learners to exchange ideas.  Furthermore, the course did not include any activities to maximize learning. 

The course was literally a video lecture series.  I was, however, pleased to see that the last module in the video series was a review.  This would provide learners with the opportunity to revisit key themes from the previous modules.  Finally, on the technology side, I think that it was a good idea to offer the videos in flash, QuickTime, and mp3 formats.  This addressed learner accessibility.  Overall, the course was interesting, but I must admit that I would have much preferred more interaction and assessment opportunities.