Current and Future Trends of Media and Information
Massive Open Online Course Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) is defined by Educause as a model for delivering learning content online to any person who wants to take a course, with no limit on attendance.
The four main characteristics of MOOCs are:
1. Revolutionary nature – Transforming physical learning into virtual learning.
2 . Online learning – Conducted entirely through digital platforms.
3. Use of information technology – Data analysis and analytics are used to assess learning.
4. Emphasis on connectedness – Learners stay connected globally despite distance.
Purposes of MOOCs 1. Higher Education Allowing learners to choose specialized courses without the need for a traditional classroom. 2. Workplace Connection Updating professionals with current practices and skills. 3. Lifelong Learning Providing opportunities for continuous education at one’s own pace. The main purpose of MOOCs is to promote personal growth through knowledge, information, and skills. Specifically, they serve three purposes:
Implications of MOOCs in Education The development of MOOCs has brought about significant implications for the education sector:
1. Attendance is no longer a requirement – Education is accessible without physical presence.
2. Cost-effectiveness – Managing MOOCs is less expensive than traditional schools. 3. Improved learning through analytics – Data-driven tools help gauge student progress.
4. Global accessibility – MOOCs allow education to reach learners worldwide, beyond geographical and financial barriers.
Wearable Technology Wearable technology is seen to be the up and coming technology of the future. Wearable technologies today are smart watches. These watches are worn as a typical wristwatch but do more than just tell time. Modern smart watches perform the same functions as smart phones.
Wearable Technology Smart watches as a wearable are developed for convenience, but its inability to function as an independent gadget puts it at a distinct disadvantage. Virtual Reality (VR) wearable technology is gradually growing in popularity among enthusiasts. Oculus, a high-end VR headsets intended for entertainment has been released to the public on March 28, 2016. This wearable technology takes users to computer generated worlds and let them experience it as if they were actually there. Oculus have so far received positive reviews among users.
3D Environment 3D or three dimensional in its literal sense refers to anything that has width, height, and depth. The physical world is an example of a 3D environment. The concept of 3D environment is explored to mimic the physical world in media.
Films are among the most common media offerings that incorporates 3D. 3D films make objects in their material appear solid to the audience through the illusion of perception. Earlier 3D motion pictures require audience to glasses with red and blue lenses.