2019 IEEE Learning With MOOCS (LWMOOCS) | 2019
Using Tough Love to Promote Active Learning
Abstract
When faced with a learning challenge, students in Esri’s MOOCs immediately contacted course support. They would ignore in-course help options and avoid the course Forum. The MOOC instruction team trialed an intervention based on tough love to guide students to engage with these resources and learn how to learn on their own. By setting expectations, simplifying help resources and carefully delaying responses to queries for help, the team nudged students toward active, independent and social learning. The tough love approach guided students to practice a skill needed for future success and provided the instruction team members with a new perspective on their roles in teaching and learning.