2013 was a year of hype for MOOCs (massive open online courses). Great big numbers and great big hopes were followed by some disappointing first results. But the head of edX, Anant Agarwal, makes the case that MOOCs still matter -- as a way to share high-level learning widely and supplement (but perhaps not replace) traditional classrooms. Agarwal shares his vision of blended learning, where teachers create the ideal learning experience for 21st century students.

Why massive open online courses (still) matter

Education has remained largely unchanged for centuries, but technology is starting to revolutionize how students learn. In one online course, 155,000 students from 162 countries enrolled, surpassing the total alumni of a major university. By blending online exercises, instant feedback, and in-person collaboration, classrooms can move from passive lectures to active, creative spaces. Early experiments show that blending these models can dramatically lower failure rates and boost engagement.

Blended Learning Transforms Classrooms Beyond the MOOC Hype

“We need to change everything on campus”

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