Social Sciences part of the University's Massive plans
In Autumn 2013 the University will run its first MOOC (Massive Open Online Course). This will enable anyone to study online, for free, wherever they are in the world. This will be a leading subject from Social Sciences and Electronics and Computer Science (ECS), in conjunction with our partner FutureLearn - part of the Open University.
A MOOC is a free study programme which is designed to be studied online by large numbers of participants. In addition to traditional course materials - online video lectures, reading material, coursework and tests - MOOCs provide interactive forums that help students and tutors build an online community around areas of interest.
The University of Southampton has been busy working with the Centre for Innovation in Technologies and Education (CITE) and other teams across the University to develop our first MOOC which will be delivered on the newly launched FutureLearn platform alongside other Universities and content providers like the British Library and the British Council. These exciting opportunities can be taken as a taster for further study or just to learn more about a subject of interest from a potentially massive international audience.
The aim is to give people access to education without the need for prior subject knowledge, just enthusiasm and a willingness to engage around topic areas that interest them or may help them develop their skills.
Courses will cover a range of topics, each requiring two to three hours of study per week. Participants can either choose to complete the whole programme, or elect to dip into particular topics of interest as and when time allows.
The University plans to launch its first few MOOCs in leading subject areas including a major archaeological dig and an emerging Computer Science discipline we are helping pioneer with ECS, drawing on our world-leading expertise in the field.
If you would like to know more about our MOOCs, FutureLearn and what course we will be launching first, register your interest and select the option "Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths" or "Humanities, Arts & Science".