22 Overcoming constraints
The benefits of online learning are well-documented, and the fact that it is persistent, flexible, ‘always on’ and creates opportunities for learners globally is probably one of the reasons you are considering developing an Open course. However, it’s also worth recognising the constraints, and the ways in which you might overcome them.
The table on the next page highlights some of the constraints that learners might encounter along with mitigation strategies.
| Issue | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Isolation | Use a conversational tone throughout the course by encouraging dialogue between learners. Most platforms have tools that enable you to pose reflective questions that promote discussion amongst the cohort. For example, each step (page) on FutureLearn allows learners to post comments (and to ‘like’ and respond to other learners’ posts). FutureLearn also supports peer review activities that can further reduce the sense of isolation. Coursera includes dedicated steps to support discussion and debate. Consider in advance of the launch whether you want to provide facilitation for your Open course and, if so, how you will manage this. Facilitation can be light touch, but there is robust evidence to suggest that responses to learners’ posts and comments encourages learners to engage and persist with a course. Although facilitation for asynchronous Open courses is usually lighter touch than in synchronous versions, it’s important to take time to plan how you intend to support learners as they progress through the course. |
| Motivation and engagement | Include a variety of activities and a mix of learning types will help ensure that learning is an active process in your course. Similarly, providing ways for participants to apply their learning can help them to remain engaged throughout the course. For example, they could practise new skills or produce an artefact that enables them to synthesise what they have learnt. Providing learners with ways that they can engage with other course participants will also help keep them engaged within an active learning experience. You can significantly improve learner motivation by developing a strong narrative and connecting what learners have already covered with what they will learn next. This will help you create a compelling learner journey. In addition, you can maximise the likelihood that learners will complete their learning journey by offering them recognition for completing the course e.g. through certification or accreditation. |
| Lack of feedback | When designing opportunities for learners to check their understanding, try to anticipate the ways in which they might get things wrong. Aim to provide detailed feedback explaining why an answer is correct (and why an incorrect answer is wrong). |
| Technology | Not all learners will have reliable internet access. You can accommodate learners with low-bandwidth connections by creating alternatives that offer an equivalent learning experience. For example, you could provide downloadable files for offline use, text equivalents, or using audio only content (with a transcript). |
| Accessibility | Accessibility of all learning content should be considered a key requirement from the outset and not an afterthought. Accessibility standards often benefit all learners, not just those with additional needs. |
