What is the connection to edX?
Initially, edX was designed to be the software platform for HarvardX and MITx MOOCs. However, HarvardX is more than that. It’s a university-wide strategic initiative to use technology to teach better.
Describe your offerings.
We have roughly 80 open courses, including SPOCs, blended learning courses and about 60 MOOCs. Three-quarters of them are based on current courses and the rest are new. Sometimes the MOOC creates the Harvard course. All of our MOOCs are just as hard as our on-campus classes.
How do teachers use HarvardX?
If you teach American poetry, you can show your students clips from the MOOC on 20th century poets. You can also personalize your course by using our annotation tool to highlight and comment on poetry directly in the platform.
What is the added value?
HarvardX studies the best ways to use digital tools online and on campus. Harvard’s goal is not just to create and share tools. We want to apply our findings to the way we teach. Our goals are more focused on research than numbers.
Will this replace the traditional model?
No, HarvardX will transform it. There will be online-only learning but also hybrid models, like flipped classrooms. Experimentation is in Harvard’s DNA. Whereas edX is a worldwide platform for online learning, HarvardX aims to transform the university. In order to lead in this space, you need to invest and develop new approaches. That’s why we do neuroscience research. Harvard wants to make discoveries that make things better.
How does this fit into Harvard’s digital strategy ?
Most schools take a decentralized approach to this research. HarvardX is the biggest centralized university commitment to using digital tools to improve teaching on campus.
What are your plans for the future?
Increasing course volume is important but we’re more focused on how we use the courses. The term MOOC is a bit restrictive. Instead, we want to develop modular learning content, which teachers can adapt to their needs. Courses should not be static.
