MOOC “Digital Competences for teachers”: an innovative training practice

Abstract

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) are open courses available online without costs for the user and designed in such a way as to be scalable, thus allowing for a large number of participants. In this framework, a team of researchers from Universidade Aberta (UAb.pt) has developed a specific pedagogical model which has being tested, discussed and improved. This model is based on a number of socio-constructivist principles which combine autonomous learning with a strong social dimension. This paper analyses and discussed to which extent the use and improvement of the model in the MOOC Digital Competencies for Teachers promotes knowledge appropriation and the sharing of experiences, as well as the development of digital competencies. Taking into consideration that learning is conducted through interaction with materials, facilitators and with fellow participants, the research starts by analyzing interactions which took place in the virtual learning environment. In a second phase, it is conducted a content analysis of the different digital artefacts produced by the participants. In conclusion, the paper shows how this innovative model contributes to the appropriation of new knowledge and reflection on practices, highlighting the possibility of these courses being powerful tools for the training of teachers and other professionals. The authors also discuss the new pedagogical approaches emerging from MOOCs.

Keywords

• Competências digitais
• elearning
• interação virtual
• modelo pedagógico
• MOOC.