Exploring Emerging Technologies for Lifelong Learning and Success (Coursera)

This course is targeted to the needs of ALL learners, including college students, faculty, current and career-seeking professionals, and anyone from across the globe with a desire to learn how to use emerging technologies to succeed in today’s rapidly changing world.

This project consists of two associated parts; #EmTechMOOC and EmTechWIKI.

#EmTechMOOC is a Massive Open Online Course, also called a MOOC. The MOOC is hosted on the Coursera platform and provides a supportive environment for dialogue and sharing among participants.

EmTechWIKI has been built to complement the MOOC. It is a socially-curated discovery engine to discover tools, tutorials, and resources. The WIKI can be used as a stand-alone resource, or it can be used together with #EmTechMOOC. Anyone is welcome to add or edit WIKI resources.

The MOOC learning environment is structured around 5 modules. The concepts that are covered include Lifelong Learning and the 4Cs of 21st-century skills: including Communication and Collaboration, Creativity, Critical Thinking. Participants build a personal ePortfolio to display artifacts created through Discovery Exercises to showcase accomplishments. The final module provides an opportunity to summarize and reflect on the learning journey.

Learning activities provide accessible, curated information and application exercises pertaining to current and emerging technologies relevant to learners and professionals alike, such as audio, video, social networking, etc.

#EmTechMOOC is not a traditional MOOC. Instead of providing content-heavy information, it relies on discovery-based learning that is under the control of the learner. You will be prompted to locate and explore new resources and tools from the growing EmTechWIKI collection to help you meet your personally identified objectives. You will then reflect on and share your learning and discoveries through your personal portfolio that you will construct throughout the modules in the course.

What You Will Learn

- Identify the value and implications of using established and emerging technology tools for personal and professional growth.

- Gain strategies to develop lifelong learning habits to keep pace with technology change.

Syllabus

WEEK 1

Lifelong Learning (Module 1)

Welcome to Exploring Emerging Technologies for Lifelong Learning and Success ( #EmTechMOOC )! In this module, we will explore the habits of successful lifelong learners and the importance of a growth mindset. We will also learn about managing your professional online identity. In addition, we will discuss critical concepts for today's learners including creative commons and the importance of digital accessibility.

WEEK 2

Communication and Collaboration (Module 2)

In this module, you will evaluate and use selected technology and social media tools to communicate, collaborate, and form partnerships with peers or colleagues. Use this opportunity to build your personal and professional networks as you make connections locally and across the globe.

WEEK 3

Creativity (Module 3)

In this module, you will evaluate and use selected technology and social media tools to enhance your creativity. Experiment and find your creative voice.

WEEK 4

Critical Thinking (Module 4)

In this module, you will demonstrate critical thinking and digital literacy skills by analyzing, evaluating, and curating information. You will learn to analyze facts to make balanced judgments.

WEEK 5

Summarize Your Learning (Module 5)

In this final module, reflect on your achievements, as well as on the accomplishments of your fellow learners. You will participate in an ePortfolio peer-review activity. Reflect on what you have learned and identify lifelong learning goals and construct a framework for achieving these goals. Finally, celebrate your learning!