Access to legal education for all - the experience of MOOCs in professional legal education :

In May 2016 the Diploma Centre of the Law Society will launch a Massive Open Online Course (“MOOC”) in Data Protection which is the latest milestone in the Diploma Centres MOOC series, following two previous successful... [ view full abstract ]

In May 2016 the Diploma Centre of the Law Society will launch a Massive Open Online Course (“MOOC”) in Data Protection which is the latest milestone in the Diploma Centres MOOC series, following two previous successful offerings in Aviation Leasing & Finance and Technology Law.
This presentation will reflect upon the experience of the Diploma MOOC team in the design and delivery of the first professional education MOOCs in Ireland. We will outline the influences that shaped the instructional design process, our observations of student learning through the duration of the course and the technological challenges encountered in hosting a MOOC using the Moodle learning management system.
Beyond the artefact, we look at the impact of the MOOC and address issues including;
• why this type of course is a good fit for a professional institution
• resulting improvements in the pedagogical approach of our adjunct teaching faculty
• direct impact on our teaching and learning approach on our standard blended learning courses

In conclusion we will share suggestions of the key considerations for educators interested in running their own MOOC and contemplate avenues of future research arising from our experiences.