美国高校网络课程两大在线学习平台的特征比较分析——以Coursera与edX为例

An Analysis on the Characteristics of Two Major Online Learning Platforms in American Colleges and Universities——Take Coursera and edX as Examples

Coursera在线学习平台在发展中体现出,合作伙伴类型的多样化、在线课程语言的多样化和在线课程学科的多样化三大特色;在线学习者自定步调进行学习;教学设计具有创新性,推行"签名追踪体系"的认证付费服务;但在该平台的学术成就和教育质量受到一定质疑。edX在线学习平台一方面注重与顶尖大学进行合作,另一方面积极与政府、企业搭建合作平台,实施多元化扩张之路;虽然其在线课程的语言较为单一,但在线课程学科与Coursera一样呈多样性;授课时间的固定性使在线课程的学习方式分为"旁听"和"证书"两种类型,"证书"类课程根据在线学习者的个性化需求设立多种课程认证付费方式;管理上采取严密的教学管理机制,以保障在线教育质量。

Since the rise of MOOC, Coursera online learning platform reflects three characteristics： the diversity of partner types, the diversity of teaching language and various disciplines. On the platform, learners can realize self-paced study. Although the platform has launched several innovative services, like ＂Signature Tracking System＂ certification paid service, experts still have doubts about its academic achievements and education quality. EdX online learning platform prefers to cooperate with top universities, governments and enterprises. It applies single language to develop various disciplines. Learners here are divided into two types according to fixed course arrangement, ＂auditor＂ and ＂certification＂, where the type of ＂certification＂ can be paid as personalized combination of courses. Different from Coursera online learning platform, edX online learning platform establishes a strict teaching management mechanism to guarantee education quality.