Massive open online courses, or MOOCs, spark questions even for those familiar with the new concept in distance education.

The West Virginia University Libraries are working to determine their place in the equation. Dr. Michael Stephens, a professor in the School of Library and Information Science at San Jose State University, will delve into the role of libraries concerning MOOCs during his presentation on Oct. 13 from 2-3 p.m. at the Evansdale Library. A reception will follow.

MOOCs, which first appeared in 2012, go beyond the traditional online course in that they are open to an unlimited audience and free to anyone to access. However, the courses are non-credit.

This talk coincides with WVU’s first MOOCs being offered through a partnership with Coursera. The College of Creative Arts will offer “New World, New Map: GPS for today’s music industry,” a class focused on the various aspects of today’s music business, beginning on Oct. 15. The College of Business and Economics will offer its internationally recognized “Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination” class beginning on Nov. 3. Both classes are free, last five weeks and can be used by professionals to earn a verified certificate. A committee made up of faculty approved these two courses.

Stephens is an internationally known speaker and is known for his Web 2.0 work. His blog can be read at www.tametheweb.com. He will also be speaking at the West Virginia Library Association Fall Conference at Snowshoe Resort on October 10.

-WVU-

mm/10/02/14

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