MOOCs – Distance Studying in Spain

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are becoming more popular as many universities worldwide start to offer courses in different subjects. MOOCs are a great way to learn Spanish too, find out more below.

What is a MOOC?

MOOCs open up learning for everyone – anyone can sign up and the majority of courses are free. They’re also a way for students to be able to access classes given by prestigious university professors.

Another advantage is the possibility, in most cases, to study when and where you want: at home on your desktop, on the train on your tablet or even via your smartphone.

Dropout rates are high – in some cases as high as 90% for free courses. These high dropout rates can lead to issues where group collaboration is an essential part of the course.

Nearly all MOOCs are self-contained, in other words they do not normally lead to a degree or other formal qualification. Advances in technology could mean that some universities consider in the future the possibility for online exams to be taken by students.

Are all MOOCs Free?

Although the majority of MOOCs are free, some are subject to a fee. Additionally if you want a certificate of participation you normally have to pay.

When you sign-up you should check the specific details if your aim is to have some type of proof that you have followed the course.

Who Offers MOOCs?

In the UK The Open University offers free courses via their FutureLearn website. FutureLearn has partnered with several UK Universities and offers MOOCs in many different subjects, just search by keywords.

Popular courses have multiple start dates, so if you’re unable to join one due to prior commitments, register to receive information about when the course will be available again. In order to obtain a Certificate of Participation you’ll have to pay a fee plus a delivery charge.

The largest US-based MOOC providers are Coursera with over 500 courses, EdX, Udacity and Udemy among others. Many of the courses are science-based, but every year more subject areas are being made available.

Resources for Learning Spanish Online

Future Learn offers Spanish courses for beginners, check out their 6-part course here.

The University of Salamanca offers their A2 level Spanish MOOC once or twice a year, the materials are available for consultation at other times. Also the Universidad de La Laguna offers a course on Spanish grammar, once again the materials can be consulted when the course is unavailable.

The Open University has several free Spanish lessons in the Open Learn section. These aren’t complete courses, but you could find them useful.

Check out Udemy’s short free Spanish courses along with lots of low-priced courses.

You could also take a look at Cada Dia Spanish – Daily Conversations by The Canvas Network or Instreamia.

More Courses

At Future Learn take a look at Managing My Money – 8 weeks, 3 hours per week. This course covers practical advice about budgeting, debts, investments and pensions.

And if you have plenty of time, why not have a look at Chinese for Beginners from Coursera?