Analysis of Open Course
The analysis for the application for week five was to evaluate an online course
and challenge whether it meets any of the criterion listed below.
Does the course appear to be carefully pre-planned and designed for a
distance learning environment? How so?
Does the course follow the recommendations for online instruction as listed
in your course textbook?
Did the course designer implement course activities that maximize active
learning for the students?
The course that I chose to evaluate was an online “open” course offered by
Yale University.
I chose “Listening to Music” from the list of courses available in Yale’s online
course catalogue.
Let me define what an “open” course from Yale University is.
It is a free open website of university courses offered by the professors of
the university. The courses are offering classes and you can start at any time.
Although you cannot receive a credit towards a degree by taking these online
open courses, if you are interested in a degree then you must apply directly to
the Yale University for acceptance into a program.
Upon evaluation of this course, the materials and information are carefully
pre-planned and are designed for a distance learning environment. Examining
the layout is easy to follow. First link on left describes the course and the
professor. A course syllabus is another link directing the participant to clear
and concise expectations of how the course will be marked, what materials are
required and what are the expectations of student’s input to demonstrate
understanding of course. Following the syllabus is the link for the class sessions
by topic based on current level of course. Additional links for downloads, course
survey and books required for course are also available.
Simonson directed us to look for the following when analyzing an online course.
Is it Learner Centric? Yes, this course is learner centric as the learner controls
the when and where to take the instruction. Does the content lead to the desired
outcome listed? Yes, the content is guided through the materials, reading and
listening files to engage student to listen attentively to mark and note the details
required for study materials. The methods and materials are many and are
required to follow a concurrent flow in order to successfully complete all of the
required outcomes. The technology allows for the student to choose the media
type based on their needs.
I feel that this course has followed the recommendations for online instruction
as listed in my course textbook?
Did the course designer implement course
activities that maximize active learning for the students? In this case yes based
on the outcomes and the requirements. There are lots of listening activities and
materials available to download to prepare for tests. Is it sexy dynamic and
splashy? No. The course is not a revenue generator and therefore to spend
lots of money for no proven returns is not effective.
Open course: Listening to Music Yale University Open Course http://oyc.yale.edu/music/listening-to-music/
Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (4th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.
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