A Successful Learning Experience using SPOCs

Abstract

The application of MOOC technologies to on campus training, i.e. Small Private Online Courses (SPOCs), is a promising direction. Universidad Carlos III de Madrid has implemented several SPOCs during the last two years for first year students that need to review concepts about Physics, Mathematics or Chemistry. The Khan Academy platform was used for this purpose: Lecturers created a series of videos and exercises and the students interacted by watching those videos, solving the exercises and setting goals or earning badges and energy points. Students were able to interact with the SPOCs within the Khan Academy platform during one month. Next, students attended face-to-face lessons for one week about the mentioned subjects.