Modularizing MOOCs for Professional Learning: Prospects and Challenges for Instructional Design

Modularization describes the transformation of MOOCs from a comprehensive academic-style course format into small-scale, self-contained, flexible and competence-oriented learning offerings. Modularized learning offerings appear to be much more suitable for training and professional learning and can thus be seen as a prerequisite for a sustainable integration of online learning these areas. This paper introduces the concept of modularization and reports on the development and application of a modularization framework for open online courses. By the example of eGov-Campus, a German MOOC provider for the public sector linked to both academia and formal professional development, we outline the structural specifications for modularized MOOC offerings and a methodology for course transformation. Following on from this, prospects and challenges for instructional design are discussed.