Online PLUS: Challenges and Opportunities of a Diverse Classroom
Online PLUS: Challenges and Opportunities of a Diverse Classroom

Summary/Abstract: This paper presents the experiences of the author in developing of a pilot web-based educational approach, referred to Online PLUS. Based on a critical review of existing pedagogies and professional trends in the field of online learning and the existing status of the massive open online course (MOOC): a) the purpose and the need of the learning approach Online PLUS is defined, and b) structural similarities, differences, and business models of a course in all three different formats (online, Online PLUS, and MOOC) are discussed. The learning approach Online PLUS brings together, in a diverse classroom, for-credit students and industry practitioners. The benefits and challenges of the diverse classroom are demonstrated and discussed on the example of the seven week online course ‘Doing Business in North America’. The course will have two distinct categories of participants with different involvement and assessment requirements: a) students currently enrolled in the BU online programs, and b) industry practitioners who are looking for opportunities to increase their knowledge in the main subject area, covered in this course. This paper discusses specific methodological aspects for the development of an Online PLUS course as well as requirements and plans for its pilot introduction by Boston University in fall 2014. Finally, concluding observations and recommendations are provided.

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