MOOCs are great tools for facilitating blended learning at the high-school level, and specifically for AP (Advanced Placement) courses.
In July, edX, North Corolina-based Davidson College and the College Board launched Davidson Next, a free blended project that supplements AP teaching and learning in AP Calculus (AB/BC), AP Physics (1&2) and AP Macroeconomics with online, self-paced, AP-aligned and approved modules. These module topics are available for free on edX.org.
The Davidson Next modules, which include the most difficult concepts, will allow students to remain engaged in their classrooms, while honing their digital skills in content-specific units. They will include high-quality video segments, interactive activities, simulations and innovative questions to learn in “digital mode,” while still preparing them for the written exams.
The program was piloted during the 2014-15 academic year in 26 high schools of North and South Carolina. Around 1,200 students and 34 teachers were included in the test run.
A $1.8 million grant from the Laura and John Arnold Foundation, as well as some funding from Davidson, paid for the initial modules. More funding will be required to develop new AP courses – there are 38 in total.
